National Parks In The USA You Can Explore From Your Couch

As many people practice social distancing — or staying home and avoiding crowds and public spaces — to help curb the spread of the coronavirus, several museums, and theaters have temporarily closed in the name of public health.

But amid the coronavirus pandemic, many places of leisure and cultural institutions are opening their doors virtually to provide resources, online activities, and tours to give people a fun way to stay entertained and connected to the outside world while they’re spending more time at home.

While the National Parks Service hasn’t closed any of its parks to the public due to the coronavirus at the time of writing, making a special visit to a national park may not be in the cards for many Americans and travelers around the world for the time being. Here’s how to virtually visit at least 8 US national parks — all from the comfort of your couch or bed.

Arches National Park.

It’s no surprise that Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America: it’s a 73,234-acre wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and, of course, arches northwest of Moab. The park protects an amazing landscape that includes the largest proliferation of arches in the world. Over 2,000 arches have been cataloged in Arches National Park. At sunrise, rays of light break over dramatic horizons. Click here to virtually visit Arches National Park.

Badlands National Park

This striking South Dakota landscape boasts a maze of buttes, canyons, pinnacles and spires. Skeletons of three-toed horses and saber-toothed cats are among the many fossilized species found here. Wildlife abounds in the park’s 244,000 acres and can often be seen while hiking, camping and traveling the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway. Click here to virtually visit Badlands National Park.

Big Bend National Park.

On the border with Mexico, separated by a huge bend in the Rio Grande river, Big Bend National Park is one of Texas’ most impressive natural wonders. Mountains, desert, and the river combine to make this area an outstanding outdoor playground for hikers, campers, canoers, birders, and nature lovers in general. Even if you are just up for a drive through the park, you’ll find interesting sites and scenery along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, and a quick stop at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit or a soak in the hot springs will make for an outstanding day.Click here to virtually visit Big Bend National Park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The curve of the Cuyahoga makes its mark in the woods of Ohio. Step through the trees, away from the city, and immerse yourself in the history of this vast and boundless country USA. Cuyahoga Valley, a national park in Ohio, is very close to Cleveland and Akron and provides recreational opportunities along the Cuyahoga River. Click here to virtually visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Denali National Park.

Larger than the state of New Jersey, Denali National Park and Preserve is a vast wilderness that is mostly untouched by human hands, save for the one park road and a few scattered services. It is known for legendary wildlife and big adventures, from backcountry camping to mountaineering. Even for those who stick to a bus tour of the park road, and its scenic overlooks, wild adventures often await to surprise and delight. Click here to virtually visit Denali National Park.

Everglades National Park

To visit the Everglades is to step into a haven amongst the mangroves, to immerse yourself in the sense of wonder that surrounds you, and to sink deep into the slow, languid pace of life in a swamp. And thanks to National Park Foundation supporters like you, acres upon acres of this mysterious swampland are protected for generations to come. Click here to virtually visit Everglades National Park.

Glacier National Park

“Crown of the Continent” is an apt nickname for this pair of parks, which feature some of the most impressive mountain scenery in North America. Joined together since 1932 as the world’s first international peace park, Glacier National Park in Montana and Watertown Lakes National Park in Alberta offer a contiguous high-country wonderland of rock, ice, water, and wood. Click here to virtually visit Glacier National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park

Imagine the Grand Canyon with no people. Just the psychedelic-colored canyon walls, the wind, and the river silent and milk chocolaty at the bottom of the gorge. That’s how it must have looked to the Native Americans who lived in and around the Grand Canyon 12,000 years ago, and to the Spanish explorers who laid eyes on the rift in the 16th century. Click here to virtually visit Grand Canyon National Park.

Explore these national parks at the comfort of your couch this spring and make memories that surely will last a lifetime.

Traditional Costa Rican Food To Savour During Your Vacation

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There are so many delicious dishes that are a must-try when visiting Costa Rica. Traditional Costa Rican food is definitely a blend of comfort food and grandma’s home cooking with a flavor-bursting Latin flare. In Costa Rica, family-owned and operated small restaurants are called sodas. Sodas, which there are a countless number of throughout the country, is where you are likely to find some of the best varieties of traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

Gallo pinto

You cannot come to Costa Rica without having gallo pinto at least once; though it is highly unlikely that you will be able to resist eating it more. Gallo pinto is traditionally served with breakfast, but can also be served later in the day. Gallo pinto is a slowly blended and married together dish of rice, beans, onions, red peppers, and cilantro. Gallo pinto served with eggs, fried cheese, sweet plantains, and homemade corn tortillas is a breakfast plate you must indulge in.

Chifrijo

Chifrijo is a compact dish that is usually served in bars. It is a bowl of rice and beans topped with fried pork meat or fried pork skins and topped with avocado, pico de gallo, chimichurri, and lime. There are few things that go better with an ice cold Pilsen than a cup of chifrijo. Often this dish is accompanied by homemade tortilla chips or plantain chips. Every bit will make you smile.

Chicharrones

Chicharrones are something you should absolutely try, but maybe only once during your visit. Chicharrones are a very popular snack that are usually served at fiestas, family gatherings, bars, and any other type of celebration in Costa Rica. They are nothing short of scrumptious, but tip the fat and cholesterol scale. Chicharrones are fried pork rinds. It is so well-loved in Costa Rica that there is even an annual Chicharrones Fair in Puriscal to celebrate and serve up mass quantities of the delectable dish.

Patacones

Patacones are made from green plantains. The green plantain is peeled and sliced into quarter- to half-inch thick pieces and quickly boiled on each side. Then, each piece is flattened and fried on both sides until crisp. They are then topped with lime and salt. Sometimes they are served with refried beans on top and avocado, pica de gallo, or shredded cabbage salad. It’s impossible to eat just one.

Sopa negra

Not all places in Costa Rica are hot. In elevated zones or in the Central Valley temperatures can be quite moderate and sometimes even chilly. It is in these places that a bowl of sopa negra will taste its best. Sopa negra is traditional black bean soup. This is also Costa Rica’s answer chicken noodle soup and served when people are sick. Sopa negra is typically served with two hard boiled eggs, a cup of rice, and a side of corn tortillas. A warming dish that is good for the soul.

Casado

A casado — strangely translating as “married man” — is a typical plate of Costa Rican food. While there are all sorts of varieties of this plate, traditionally it includes rice and beans, a salad, fried sweet plantains, and a protein — either fish, chicken, pork, or beef. Some casados will come with a slice of fresh cheese, French fries or grilled vegetables. A casado basically has all the staples of a perfectly balanced meal and is the comida typica (typical food) of Costa Rica. This plate is served for lunch or dinner.

Traditional Costa Rican food to savour during your vacation with XcelTrip] and make memories that last a lifetime.

Visit The Wonderland Of Natural Attractions, Costa Rica

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Costa Rica is a wonderland of natural attractions, with volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests, and unique wildlife. This is a country that appeals as much to birdwatchers and luxury focused travellers as it does to surfers and backpackers. The busy city of San Jose is home to the country’s best museums and lovely squares, but the real treasures lie beyond the capital, in the forests and small coastal villages. Endless stretches of beach line the Pacific Coast, with small towns that cater to surfers and sun seekers. Inland, the forest-covered mountains offer their own adventures, from volcanoes and waterfalls to ziplining and extraordinary wildlife viewing. Costa Rica also has shoreline on the Caribbean. While this is a lesser visited area of the country, it offers something a little different in terms of culture and attractions, and is known in particular as a breeding ground for green sea turtles.

Arenal Volcano

The Arenal Volcano National Park is found in the rugged Cordillera de Tilarán and is one of the top volcano viewing areas in the country. The main attraction in the park is the Arenal Volcano, reaching 1,633 meters. It looks just as one might imagine a volcano; a cone-shaped mountain with huge ash columns streaming from the crater.

Arenal was dormant from 1500 AD until a massive eruption on July 29, 1968, which killed 82 people and destroyed two villages. Since then, it has seen regular activity and, depending on the day or week, visitors can expect to see anything from a cloud of ash to glowing red lava flowing down the mountain.

The Arenal Observatory Lodge, originally a private observatory established in 1987, is the only lodge within the Arenal Volcano National Park boundaries. It is located on a macadamia nut farm on the south side of the volcano. From the lodge, there are excellent views of the volcano and Arenal Lake in the opposite direction. Numerous hiking trails are in the area, some of which lead to waterfalls, as well as old and recent lava flows.

Dominical

Dominical is a tropical backpacker’s haven, with dirt streets, beautiful beaches, cheap accommodation, casual open-air restaurants, and its own unique vibe. Surfers who come here find it hard to leave, and visits often turn into extended stays. But Dominical also attracts an upper-end crowd who can find small luxury inns and bed and breakfasts on the outskirts or in the hills overlooking the town. These places are often set off on their own and allow for close up wildlife viewing, with howler monkeys waking guests in the morning and toucans flying by the pool.

The town’s main claim to fame is a wide stretch of open beach, backed by shady trees, where vendors set up tables and sell crafts and other items to tourists. Outside of town are quieter beaches where it’s possible to find a peaceful space all to oneself. Due to Dominical’s southern location, it is lush and steamy even in the dry season when northern areas are dusty and the trees have dropped their leaves.

Mal Pais and Santa Teresa

Mal Pais on the Nicoya Peninsula, is an area along the coast known for great waves that attract surfers from all over. The town of Santa Teresa is the main hotspot in the area, but a chain of villages and beaches lie along the Mal Pais, including the villages of Mal Pais and Manzanillo. Today, the area is a mix of backpackers, surfers who never managed to leave, and tourists who wish they had planned a longer vacation. The area is more trendy and has more of a scene than places like Dominical, and development in the area has turned it more upscale.

The National Theater in San Jose

Costa Ricans take pride in the National Theater, which is considered to be the most impressive building in San José. In the 1890s, the ruling coffee barons voted for a tax on coffee exports in order to fund the construction of the theater, and European artisans were imported to design the building.

Completed in 1897, the building features a classical Renaissance columned façade topped by statues symbolizing Dance, Music, and Fame. Inside, the pink marble foyer features allegorical figures of Comedy and Tragedy, and painted murals depicting themes in Costa Rican life.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is the main attraction in this park. This active volcano last erupted in 2011 and as a result, hiking trails to the summit are no longer open, but there is still hiking in the area with trails leading to waterfalls and hot springs. This park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, with tapirs, sloths, monkeys, and large cats such as the jaguar, puma, and ocelot still inhabiting the park.

Monteverde and the Cloud Forests

The Cloud Forests near Monteverde and Santa Elena have become popular ecotourism destinations within Costa Rica. For those itching to immerse themselves in nature and see unique plants and wildlife without venturing too far off the beaten path, this is definitely the place to come. The clouds that cover these forests provide the moisture necessary to sustain the area’s unique habitats that are only found here. While many people come simply for the bird watching, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve sustain all kinds of mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, from jaguars and pumas to frogs and monkeys. Organized hikes are one of the best ways to see the forest, along with canopy tours that may involve zip-lines or bridges and even cable cars.

Visit The Wonderland Of Natural Attractions, Costa Rica, with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

Plan Your Vacations To Beautiful Wineries Around The World

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When you think of the best wineries in the world, you probably think of a winery in France, stretching across rolling hills. Maybe a Spanish-style ranch, surrounded by vineyards in California’s Napa Valley. Or perhaps Marlborough Sound in New Zealand, home to some of the best wine from a cool climate. Whatever your idea, a good winery often comes with a beautiful landscape, so the best wineries in the world aren’t that far from some of the world’s most beautiful places.

Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou, France

Named for the large gem-like stones growing in the winery’s 18th estate, this prestigious French winery is located 25 miles north-west of Bordeaux in the heart of the Haut Médoc region and has been long renowned for its location and grand estate as for its wines. A comparatively small winery, Ducru Beaucaillou was established in the early 18th century and is considered one of the finest vineyards in Bordeaux, and a classic example of French winemaking at its best. While there are dozens of wineries in this region of France, Ducru Beaucaillou is one of the most striking, situated overlooking the Gironde estuary in a castle still inhabited by the winery’s owners it’s a classy old-school example of grand cru-grade winemaking, the culmination of centuries of harvests.

Chard Farm Winery, New Zealand

While many New Zealand wineries could be candidates for the best winery in the world, Chard Farm stands apart for several reasons. Firstly, it is an estate that could be appreciated by any teetotaller. Spread over five vineyards in the Central Otago region, the only part of New Zealand that experiences a continental climate, Chard Farm is a family-run operation that channels the best of the region into their bottles. Their wines are not entered into competitions, instead Chard Farm prefers to experiment, chasing ‘interesting’ rather than ‘special’, an approach matched by their eccentric architecture, their engagement with the Otago community and the deep knowledge of the environment. Chard Farm is the perfect example of a small winery whose produce epitomises a place. In this case a pinot noir worth the 20km drive from Queenstown.

Marques de Riscal, Spain

From integration into a remote New Zealand community to an ostentatious jewel in the Spanish crown. Some wineries will make do with a small functional building as their centre, but not Marques de Riscal. When they decided to build a hotel and function centre for their estate they called in superstar architect Frank O. Gehry who designed a building named The City of Wine. Located in the heart of Spain’s Rioja Alavesa region, Marques de Riscal is best known for Gehry’s architectural clash between the estate’s mid-19th century cellars and his 21st century avant garde design that also houses a Michelin-starred restaurant. While it seems that distractions from wine abound here, the wines have won an inordinate number of medals and few were surprised when Wine Enthusiast magazine awarded Marques de Riscal its Best European Winery award in 2013.

Chateau Montelena, California

No list of the world’s best wineries would be complete without at least one from California’s Napa Valley. Ever since the legendary Judgement of Paris blind tasting competition in 1976 in which the European judges unwittingly named Californian wines as better than the French and inadvertently globalised the world of wine, wineries like Chateau Montelena have been setting the pace for the world to follow. Renowned as one of the oldest and most picturesque of Napa’s wineries, Chateau Montelena offers tours, tastings and cellar door sales in its distinctive Gothic castle chateau with private lake and grounds. An absolute must-see on any Napa Valley visit.

Yarra Yering, Yarra Valley, Australia

Though many of the best wineries in the world are right here in Australia, few cool-climate regions have grown as fast in reputation and significance as Victoria’s Yarra Valley. To find a world-class winery within a day trip of a major city is a rarity. To find one with the reputation of Yarra Yering is even rarer. Though the Yarra Valley is thick with dairies, fruit orchards, breweries and bed and breakfasts, this foodie paradise is best known for its wines, with Yarra Yering one of the most awarded and respected. Established in 1973 by Bailey Carrodus, one of the pioneers of Australian winemaking, Yarra Yering saw Sarah Crowe become the first woman to win winemaker of the year in a perfect example of tradition and breaking trends.

Holden Manz Winery, South Africa

The dark horse of global wine production, South Africa has been producing quality wines since the 1650s but only recently has its production been enough to make inroads internationally where it has been consistently awarded. The Hugenots may have brought their French winemaking traditions to South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley, but the ingenuity and resourcefulness that have lead to the region’s success are purely down to the locals. A visit to a winery like Holden Manz is a perfect accompaniment to the typical African outdoor adventures. Other regions boasting established wine routes, with high-quality restaurants and stunning scenery, include Stellenbosch, Constatia and Overberg.

Mission Hill Winery, Canada

Described as “the centrepiece of the Canadian wine tourism industry” by Travel and Leisure magazine, Mission Hill is as renowned for its dazzling location on British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley as it is for its wines. With five vineyards spread out along the valley, many bordering its glacial lakes, the diverse microclimates and wide range of soil varieties produce an unusually wide variety of grapes. The Okanagan Valley, located inland from Vancouver and just north of the US border, is lined with hiking trails, ski slopes, stunning panoramas and villages with outstanding restaurants. Unlike California’s wineries, the northern latitudes mean that visiting during summer often gives 14 hours of daylight, more than enough time to explore other nearby wineries and the stunning landscape.

Lavaux vineyards, Switzerland

Other wineries on this list may be more productive, they may have better reputations for their wine and they may be easier to reach but no other is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and few would argue that any other has a better location. The Lavaux Vineyards lie along 30km of the shores of Lake Geneva and can be traced back to the 11th century. By a quirk of geography, the winery lies in a pocket of Mediterranean climate meaning the chasselas grapes grow easily and with a distinctive character. This means the visitor experiences a tranquil and uniquely timeless place. Lavaux’s 830 hectares of terraced vines can be accessed by ferry, car or hiking trail.

Visit these top wineries around the world with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

Crypto Events To Attend This Quarter

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World Blockchain Conclave, Bangalore, India

World Blockchain Conclave will explore the industries that are set to be disrupted the most by this new technology. It connects global blockchain gurus and technology players in this space including emerging startups with regional businesses, governments, and IT leaders from across key industry verticals. Come learn from the best in the space at World Blockchain Conclave!

Address: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Bangalore

Sarjapur Main Rd, Amblipura, PWD Quarters, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102

Mallorca Blockchain Days 2020

The Mallorca Blockchain Days will provide the attendees with the opportunity to gain insights relating to The importance of technology, Cryptocurrencies and ICOs: short-term hype or long-term complement to the existing monetary and financial system, Bitcoin’s value proposition, Blockchain in the supply chain, Can we accelerate side chains for privacy and is it still blockchain, etc.

Address: GPRO VALPARAISO PALACE & SPA
C/ Francisco Vidal Sureda 23 07015 | Islas Baleares, Palma de Mallorca | España

Synchronize 2020: DLT, Crypto & Smart Contracts for Financial Institutions

Synchronize 2020 will bring together financial services executives, technologists and innovators who are serious about implementing these technologies and positioning their businesses for the next generation of growth. Delegates of Synchronize will hear from the DLT pioneers in financial services who are leading these game changing projects, network with like minded peers, and identify what opportunities exist to realize the significant efficiency gains in their own business.

Address: 117 West 46th Street
New York, NY 10036
USA

Symposium on Applications, Challenges and Opportunities in Blockchain Technology

The International Conference on Information Technology — New Generations (ITNG) is an annual event focusing on state of the art technologies pertaining to digital information and communications. The applications of advanced information technology to such domains as astronomy, biology, education, geosciences, security and health care are among topics of relevance to ITNG. Visionary ideas, theoretical and experimental results, as well as prototypes, designs, and tools that help the information readily flow to the user are of special interest. Machine Learning, Robotics, High Performance Computing, and Innovative Methods of Computing are examples of related topics. The conference features keynote speakers, the best student award, poster award, service award, a technical open panel, and workshops/exhibits from industry, government and academia.

Address: Tuscany Suites, 255 EAST FLAMINGO RD. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89169

Internet of Things World 2020

Internet of Things World is North America’s largest IoT event, bringing you the top technologies, strategies, and case studies for the key industries implementing IoT. Over four days, you will meet leaders and innovators from across the IoT community. The ultimate opportunity for you to get out of the office and build valuable connections all in one place. The conference agenda includes keynotes and tracks covering industrial and consumer verticals, and technical focused sessions. Whether you are just starting out or want to scale your IoT projects, there is content designed for you.

Address: San Jose Convention CenterCA, USA

Book your tickets to fly out to the above crypto conferences with XcelTrip, keep your eyes open for discount codes on our website and make memories that last a lifetime.

Concerts that you cannot miss this 2020

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Take a step back, look at how much you’ve accomplished and realize that your workload is never going to end. There is never going to be a time in your life when you can actually be “done” with your work or responsibilities. So take a breather. There are some concerts happening around the world by various artists that you just cannot afford to miss. Be it Metallica or K-Pop, concerts give you an adrenaline rush but leave you feeling nostalgic. They also etch vivid experiences into your memory. Have a look at the events happening around the world this year. Go. You’ll have a good time. Also, bring some of your friends and family along — it’s not like they’re almost “done” with work.

Artist — Metallica

Metallica are an American heavy metal band from LA, California featuring James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo. They are performing an event in Porto Alegre on the 21st April, 2020 at the Arena do Grêmio with a capacity of 60,540 fans. Sit down or stand up and enjoy the music and the spectacle. They put one hell of a show, and not just the music. You are going to join the Metallica family — Be excited. It’s going to be one of the best experiences you’ve ever had.

For tickets: Visit https://www.eventim.com.br/metallica

Artist — Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift on her tour of Werchter Boutique 2020 is performing in Festivalpark, Werchter, Belgium on Saturday, 20 June 2020 12:00. People are known to be on a high after listening to songs they heard growing up. Flashy wristbands, smoke, fireworks and lights are what you can expect in this concert. It is an extremely energetic atmosphere.

For tickets: Visit https://www.viagogo.com/in/Concert-Tickets/Country-and-Folk/Taylor-Swift-Tickets/E-4073723

Artist — Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish is performing at the Chase Center, San Francisco, USA onTuesday, 07 April 2020 19:30. The excitement in the air as people anticipate when Billie would take the stage is something you’ll need to experience. Once the lights go down, you’ll know that you’re in for a treat. With amazing energy and stage presence — her vocals are very impressive. When Billie hits a note — it leaves members of the audience with chills running up and down their arms. Somethings like before playing a new song that has yet been released, Billie asks everyone to put down their phones and just be in the moment. This is a sentiment that this young artist extends to her fans.

For tickets: Visit https://www.viagogo.com/in/Concert-Tickets/Other-Concerts/Billie-Eilish-Tickets/E-4098919

Artist — Khalid

Khalid is doing a Free Spirit — Asia Tour 2020 in Mumbai in the JioGarden, BKC. Multi-platinum selling global superstar Khalid, who was recently named one of Time’s Most Influential People of 2019 is performing in Mumbai this year. The album — Free Spirit, which has been certified platinum by the RIAA, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 and features the multi-format #1 single “Talk”. Catch this vibrant, young artist perform live. Expect mellow vibes and catchy tunes and nothing short of phenomenal.

For tickets: Visit https://in.bookmyshow.com/events/khalid-free-spirit-asia-tour-2020/ET00118958

Artist — Drake

He’s performing at XS Nightclub At Wynn Las Vegas, Nevada, USA on Saturday, 02 May 2020 at 10pm. With his set 44-song playlist — he performs many of his songs but not in entirety. After listening to Drake’s music, listening to him live will be a real treat for you. This is a concert that will leave you nostalgic and also make you reminisce about it for days to come.

For tickets: Visit https://www.viagogo.com/in/Concert-Tickets/Rap-Hip-Hop-Reggae/Drake-Tickets/E-4375224

Artist — BTS

BTS is performing live on Saturday, 25th of April at 7:30 PM in the Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA. The boys glow. They are beautiful inside and out. Their stage presence, charisma, and kindness is so evident and unreal. They speak English throughout and occasionally speak very little Korean. Even at the end of the shoe — they linger as long as they can to show that they really love the audience. This really gives the fans the feeling that they are connected to them wholly and completely in that moment. Do expect a lot of fan-chants. Also — a word of advice would be to wear light, comfortable clothes for this concert and nothing too warm.

For tickets: Visit https://www.ticketcity.com/san-francisco-tickets/levis-stadium-tickets/bts-bangtan-boys-apr-25-2020-3412301.html

Consert hop with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

Enjoy Comida Colombiana With Your Bae This Spring

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Colombian food is meaty, flavorsome and filling. Wash it down with a sip of the strong alcoholic spirit aguardiente and crank up the salsa. Here’s our guide to some comida Colombiana(Colombian food) you must try.

Empanadas

The perfect snack to eat on the move, empanadas are much like an English pasty or Jamaican patty. The stuffed pastries can be filled with whatever you like, but popular fillings include meat, chicken or cheese. Empanadas are eaten all over Latin America, but the distinctive aspect about Colombian empanadas is that they’re almost always deep-fried.

Almuerzo corriente

Colombians know how to do lunch. Almuerzo corriente is a kind of power lunch. With a soup to start followed by a big main, invariably consisting of rice, meat or fish, some kind of lentil and a little salad on the side, the Colombian version of this midday meal is an absolute must-try.

Fritanga

Fritanga is a wonderful mix of fried offal. While it doesn’t sound delicious, and it is most certainly an acquired taste, fritangais a great way to try out bits of meat you wouldn’t normally eat.

Sancocho

Many Colombian dishes are based around the concept of making a meal out of basic ingredients. A great way to get the most flavor out of tougher cuts of meat is to cook them for a long time in soups and stews. The traditional Colombian stew is called sancocho. Chicken, pork and beef sancochos are all delicious, but for a real hearty dish, opt for mondongo — tripe soup.

Chuzo desgranado

Chuzo desgranado is the ultimate post-party snack, often served in 24-hour cafes that fill up once the clubs close. The dish is a mixture of sausage, chicken, beef and pork, served on a bed of lettuce. It’s topped with sweetcorn and crisps along with a triple hit of salsa — tartare, burger sauce and pineapple. This meal won’t win any health prices however, visitors should at least try it once, and they’ll see why it’s so popular.

Chocolate con queso

Chocolate con queso translates as chocolate and cheese. Cheese dipped in hot chocolate might not be your go-to meal but Colombians love it. Particularly popular in the capital, Bogotá, chocolatecon queso is either eaten for breakfast or at around 4 pm, as an afternoon snack. The hot chocolate and stringy, melted cheese are a surprisingly good combination.

Enjoy Comida Colombiana With Your Bae This Spring with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

Tips For A Perfect Balinese Vacation

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From navigating the crowds to being monkey-savvy, there are a few tricks to getting the best out of a trip to Bali. We’ve rounded up 6 tips for a perfect vacation at the Island of the Gods.

Respect religious customs

Religion rules the roost in Bali. Don’t get your knickers in a knot when a street is blocked off for a ceremony or your driver pulls over mid-trip to make a blessing — this is all part of the magic of the island. Plan accordingly if your travel dates fall on Nyepi when everything in Bali (even the airport) shuts down for the day, and always dress modestly (covering the shoulders and knees) and conduct yourself appropriately when visiting temples and holy sites.

Don’t fret about ‘Bali belly’

Strict dietary habits are no longer required to prevent spending your Bali break within two steps of a toilet. Once upon a time, salads, cut fruit, ice cubes and most meats were on the danger list, but hygiene standards have improved markedly across the island, and many kitchens offer good quality organic produce. While dodgy prawns will always be out there, by staying hydrated, avoiding notorious local liquor arak and consuming street food with a degree of caution, the dreaded Bali belly should be kept at bay.

Expect crowds

One of the most touristed islands on earth, Bali isn’t exactly an untouched paradise. But while it can be difficult to escape the throngs in southern Bali and Ubud, determined solitude seekers will be pleased to find loads of secluded corners beyond these primary tourist centres. Tip: head to the central mountains, or Bali’s more chilled-out north and west coasts.

Prepare for a mixed bag of price tags

It’s still possible to visit Bali on a shoestring by staying in guesthouses, dining at warungs and shopping at local markets, but you can just as easily blow your life savings as drinks, meals, spa treatments and room rates at high-end establishments are priced similarly to that in Australia, the UK and the US. Look out for online discounts and happy hour deals to keep your bank balance happy.

Choose your base carefully

It pays to put some thought into your Bali base, as chaotic traffic and hot weather are likely to make you stick close to your hotel or guesthouse rather than wander far on foot or sit in stuffy taxis. If you’re looking for real R&R, Kuta probably isn’t your thing. If you want to shop up a storm and eat more than your body weight in fine food, a week on Nusa Lembongan isn’t likely to leave you fully satiated.

Avoid plastic water bottles

Bali’s heat and humidity call for constant hydration, but consider the environment before purchasing another bottled drink. An estimated three million plastic bottles are discarded in Bali each month; help reduce this figure by investing in a stainless-steel bottle that you can refill; most good cafes and restaurants have a water filter available that you can use for free or for a small fee. Earth Café in Seminyak has stainless steel bottles available for purchase.

Use the above tips for a perfect Balinese vacation with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

A Solo Adventure Trip To Hawaii

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Hawaii is one of those places that’s a bit tough to get around if you’re flying solo. If you use a bit of creativity however, it can be an even more magical experience than going with anyone else. Here are our picks for must try adventure sports and we’ve also added a few places to relax between your adventure schedule:

Learn How To Surf

The cozy town of Kihei on Maui has long been recognized as a tourist hot spot for family travel, but solo travelers can make the most of their trip here too. Venture into the water with some of the best beginner waves in all of Hawaii. Maui Wave Riders give expert advice and lessons to help you ease into the sport. Joe, the valet, reminded me that the hardest part of surfing is in your head. “Surfing is about letting go and just getting out there and showing up.”

Hike Maui

Waterfalls, lush rainforests, and volcanic craters…Maui offers some of Hawaii’s best hiking trails. Hiking with a naturalist from Hike Maui can help you get even more out of your trip. Traveling the trails with a group will help you feel safe and see private trails.

Visit the House of Joy

When I heard there was a house of joy in Kauai, I had to visit. The concept incorporates the healing properties of Hawaiian indigenous plants and the essence of this island in a healing wellness centers. Located in the Halele’a Spa at the St Regis in Princeville, this healing center uses traditional Hawaiian medicine that incorporates both botanical and ocean related resource found in the Ahupua’a and uses locally farmed lavender to aid in the healing process for many of the treatments.

Snorkel Molokini & Whale Watch

Molokini is a wildlife protected zone off the coast of Maui which is home to more than 250 species of fish! You can only access it by boat, but making the most of this trip should include a whale watching tour. Maui is a prime spot to catch sight of migrating humpback whales, and for a good time the Pacific Whale Foundation, a non-profit organization that protects our oceans will educate you about the sea creatures you come in contact with during their amazing tours.

Sail the Na Pali Coast

A trip to Kauai would be incomplete without a venture into the fifteen-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest shore, which literally means “the Cliffs.” As a single gal, I felt safe and had a blast cruising with the friendly crew of Captain Andy’s. Much of the Na Pali Coast is inaccessible due to its sheer cliffs that drop straight down thousands of feet into the ocean, so the only way to experience these immaculate hot spots is by boat.

Experience Taurumi Healing

Healing modalities have been an integral part of the Pacific cultures for generations, but up until a year ago, there was no spa in the United States that practiced traditional Tahitian Massages. That is until Kamala Nayelo, the director of the Spa Halekulani at the luxury Halekulani Resort in Oahu, Hawaii created this unique ritual for their guests. Originating in Tahiti, this unique method is a deeply spiritual and therapeutic practice inherited from the practitioner’s Polynesian ancestors.

Take a solo adventure trip to Hawaii with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

Take A Vacation To The Land Of The Rhythm, Colombia

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Over the past five years, Colombia has experienced a tourism boom. With an increase in the number of flights to the country, an influx of hotel chains and the country’s peace negotiations settled, Colombia is becoming a major tourist destination. Its Caribbean beaches, Pacific coast, Amazon rainforest, Andes mountain range and desert plains appeal to a diverse tourist crowd. Colombia is full of unique and wonderful landscapes. Take a vacation to the land of the rhythm, Colombia and follow our guide to make memories that last a lifetime:

The Mavecure Hills

These ancient rocky hills in the deep jungles of eastern Colombia are barely known outside of the country, but are well worth the extra effort to visit. The jungles have hardly been touched by tourism and the views from the summit of the Mavecure Hills over the jungles at dawn are truly breathtaking.

Barranquilla Carnival

Colombia is the home of the world’s second largest carnivalafter Rio, the Barranquilla Carnival on the Caribbean coast. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience and an amazing party as well! In 2018 it takes place in February, so get booking those hotels now.

Buenavista and Pijao

The best up-and-coming destinations to discover the world of Colombian coffee, Buenavista and Pijao are a pair of delightfully off-the-beaten-track towns in the Quindio department, not far from the incredibly popular town of Salento. Buenavista is home to the excellent Panorama Café Hostel, and Pijao is the base for the WakeCup Experience Coffee Tour — perhaps the best of its kind in Colombia. Try and visit in July to enjoy the Yipao Jeep Parade.

Salt Cathedral

First constructed in 1816 by the miners working within the salt mine as an area to pray, the Salt Cathedral has developed dramatically into a major tourist attraction on the outskirts of Bogotá. Located in Zipaquirá, 32 miles (52 kilometers) from Colombia’s capital, Bogotá. The Salt Cathedral is made up of a number of attractions including a 3,000-seat cathedral, the seven stations of the cross, a climbing wall, 3D movie theater, museum, art gallery and café.

La Guajira

The vast Caribbean deserts at the most northerly tip of Colombia are home to some of the country’s most spectacular beaches, surreal scenery, and the best kite surfing in the country. There’s also the incredibly off-the-beaten-track Macuira National Park to discover as well.

The Choco Pacific Coast

The wild jungles of Colombia’s Pacific Coast region are some of the most biodiverse on the planet, and are among the best destinations in Colombia for nature lovers. Between June and October you can watch humpback whales, in September sea turtles come to lay their eggs, and if you’re less of a nature freak then you can always go surfing instead.

Caño Cristales

Caño Cristales, or “the river of five colors,” is located in the Serranía de la Macarena National Park. This unique and wonderfully colorful phenomenon is a picturesque sight located within a remote part of the country. The 62-mile (100-kilometer) stretch of river has beautiful waterfalls and natural pools.

Amazon rainforest communities

The Amazon rainforest is a vast ecosystem covering large areas of Colombia, Peru and Brazil. Visiting the Amazon rainforest is a unique experience, where you will witness communities living with nature and very few material items. Visiting an Amazon community is a life-changing experience; you get to see how villagers live with no running water or electricity. In the Amazon you can trek through the rainforest, visit monkey island, take boat trips and go fishing for piranhas.

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park is located close to the city of Santa Marta, on the Caribbean coast. Tayrona National Park is a sacred area for the local indigenous community of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The park boasts some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, backed by the rainforest and the snow capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a collection of 27, predominantly uninhabited Caribbean islands, located off the coast of Cartagena. These islands are a protected National Park due to their coral reefs and marine life, which make for incredible snorkeling and diving experiences. The islands can be reached by boat from Cartagena’s port, and visitors can stay overnight in hotels dotted around the islands, or alternatively visit for a day trip.

Take A Vacation To The Land Of The Rhythm, Colombiawith XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime

Stunning Cities To Visit On Your Spring Getaway To Colombia

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Cast all of your outdated ideas aside, like drug wars and gangsters, and you’ll find that Colombia is a nation brimming with confidence and rushing headfirst into a more peaceful and prosperous future. In this land of contrasts, you’ll encounter snow-capped Andean peaks, tropical Amazonian jungles, turquoise Caribbean coasts, and two sun-kissed deserts. You’ll also find a host of spectacular attractions at the places in between, from the bustling cities of Cartagena and Medellin to the quiet colonial villages of Salento and Mompox.

Above all else, the famous Colombian hospitality will undoubtedly find you coming back for more. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top cities to plan your spring getaway to Colombia.

SALENTO

Source: https://destinationlesstravel.com/

Salentois a charming little town located in the heart of Eje Cafetero (also called the Coffee Triangle), a region in the Andes Mountains famous for producing excellent coffee. Widely known for its coffee estates and verdant landscapes, the small town has long been a popular getaway for vacationing Columbians and foreign backpackers, yet has been able to retain much of its old-world charm.

The real draw of Salento would be Valle de Cocora. Hop on one of those shared jeeps at the main square and visit the swaying lines of Quindio wax palms, Colombia’s national tree. They are also the tallest palm trees known to man, standing nearly 60 meters above the green valley floor!

FILANDIA

Another of Salento’s sister towns is Filandia, also located within the “Coffee Triangle”. It is much less frequented by foreigners than other areas of the region, in fact you will probably be the only few foreigners in town, which is the perfect chance to have an authentic experience of the place. You won’t find stores selling souvenirs and printed t-shirts; instead, you will see a Colombian working-class town that is focused on itself and what it does — traditional woven baskets and coffee.

Stroll along the streets of color-splashed houses and inhale the delicious scent of coffee that lingers in the air. The best thing to do in Filandia is to take a second and do nothing at all, except enjoy a nice cup of the very thing this region is known for. If drinking isn’t enough, visit any of the coffee plantations and learn how it’s made with a local coffee farmer!

JARDIN

While Salento is very popular on the backpacker trail, you could have the idyllic town of Jardin to yourself. Known for its brightly-painted houses, colorful floral displays and milk candies, Jardin is one of the prettiest Columbian towns that has remained virtually unchanged for more than a century, you will feel like you’ve entered a time capsule and have been brought back in the past!

For nature lovers, go on a challenging hike to Cueva del Esplendor, a stunning series of caves and waterfalls a few hours outside the city. Amid beautiful landscapes, this spectacular cave has a 10m waterfall gushing through a large hole in the roof. Jump into the natural pool and have a quick dip!

SAN ANDRES

One simply cannot talk about Colombian beaches without mentioning San Andres. The seahorse-shaped island sits off the shores of Nicaragua and although relatively far away from the mainland, it remains the most popular beach destination for mainlanders. Beach-goers seeking a bit of relaxation will find here the perfect place to laze away in hammocks while watching the world pass by. The sunsets won’t disappoint and many casual beachfront restaurants with great ambiance can be found.

Fun fact: being a Colombian territory in Costa Rican and Nicaraguan waters, San Andres is in fact a duty-free zone! Goods sold there are cheaper than any other airport in the world so get your credit card ready, it’s time for some shopping!

SANTA MARTA

Another prime spot for beach lovers would be Santa Marta. Also located in the Caribbean Sea, it is often used as just a jumping off point for the surrounding islands, but is definitely worth dedicating some more time to! Santa Marta’s inspiring ocean views are no less spectacular than those in San Andres and offers some unforgettable experiences such as swimming with dolphins and reef snorkeling.

Don’t forget to visit Tayrona National Park, it is perhaps the best trip you can take out of Santa Marta and takes only 45-minutes by bus. Its untouched beaches and rustic charm makes it one of the most picturesque sights in Colombia.

MANIZALES

Manizales is tucked high in the Andes Mountains between Medellin and Bogota, surrounded by coffee farms and filled with steep hills. Being home to several big universities in Colombia, the town has a hip and youthful vibe year-round; one unique thing to experience is the emblematic Manizales Fairs, a national cultural heritage that takes place every year on the second week of January, hosting bullfighting, parades and the famous International Coffee Beauty Pageant.

Manizale is also very close to the famous Parque de Los Nevados and its snow-capped volcanoes. Hiking up the national park is challenging but the scenery is definitely rewarding; you will even get to see the world’s only pink lava!

BOGOTA

Bogota, also referred to as The Athens of South America, is Colombia’s capital and one of the largest cities of the continent. The city’s cultural hub is La Candelaria, the cobblestoned historic downtown to which most travelers tend to gravitate. It is packed with colonial buildings, trendy cafes and interesting museums including the most famous Museo del Oro, which contains more than 34,000 pieces of gold and other kinds of articles belonging to the pre-Hispanic societies in Colombia.

Be sure to check out the Gaira Café Cumbia House on a Friday or Saturday night, it will guarantee you a great Colombian-style night out! Run by the popular Colombian singer Carlos Vives, this eclectic restaurant and bar has its own stage for weekend live music shows and serves delicious coastal Colombian dishes.

MEDELLIN

The second biggest Colombian city is Medellin, the epitome of a city that has completely reinvented itself. Once home to Pablo Escobar and considered as the most dangerous city in Colombia, Medellin is now proudly positioned as the country’s most desirable city to live in. Thanks to its remarkable urban innovations throughout the past years, it was even voted as the World’s Most Innovative City in 2012.

Travelers who come here will find an inviting, vibrant city with the best climates one could ever ask for. Any time of the year is good for a visit, but with the famous Fería de las Flores (a huge 11-day flower festival celebrating the region’s culture) taking place in early August, that would be the best time.

Use XcelTrip to plan your spring getaway to Colombia and visit the above cities to make memories that last a lifetime.

Take A Sakura Vacation To Japan This Olympic Season

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Every year is different when it comes to the sakura(cherry trees). As springtime begins, the country waits patiently for the first flushes of pink. Usually, the blooms burst into colour between March and early April. But, if you can’t make peak bloom, don’t fret. An alternative is February, when the equally beautiful but lesser-known plum blossoms are on show. Keep an eye on this handy sakura forecast to track when 2020 blooming is expected to start.

This year will see cherry blossom season arriving earlier than usual in Tokyo. This is all down to the weather: a combination of high temperatures in autumn and winter, as well as warm and sunny weather in spring. Full blossom is now expected on March 27, according to a forecast by Japan Meteorological. Corp.

Tokyo — March 19
Kochi — March 19
Nagoya — March 22
Hiroshima — March 22
Kyoto — March 23
Osaka — March 25
Kagoshima — March 25
Sendai — March 25

You’ll find sakura hotspots in over 1,000 locations across the country so picking the best can prove tricky.

1.Yoshino

Come sakura season and this is probably Japan’s most famous cherry-bloom destination, where a carpet of blushing blooms cascade the mountainsides.

2.Maruyama Park

The star of its show is a huge tree, whose blossom-fringed branches bow towards the ground. It’s illuminated in the evening from dusk until midnight, which is well worth sticking around for. Mount Yoshino is a worthy pilgrimage, covered in over 30,000 cherry trees.

3. Himeji Castle

Head here during full bloom for its striking white wooden walls that provide the perfect backdrop for the 1,000 cherry trees bursting into life around it.

4. Fuji Five Lakes

These stunning lakes come with the backdrop of Mount Fuji. For a more relaxing experience, visit the volcanic island of Honshu and loll in bubbling hot spring style with silky petals swirling all around.

5. Hirosaki Castle

Possibly the prettiest spot for cherry blossom viewing, this ancient three-story castle is surrounded by a fortified moat and a huge tree-lined park that hosts illuminations in the evenings.

6. Ueno Park

Japan’s cutting-edge, cosmopolitan capital isn’t all sleek high-risers and robot bars. It’s brimming with pretty parks, immaculate gardens and riverside promenades — many of which become home to cherry blossom festivals. One of the most popular spots in the city, and one where trees tend to bloom, is Ueno Park, home to over 1,000 cherry blossom trees, as well as plenty of museums, shrines and ponds. A 4km stretch is illuminated from 5pm to 9pm (from about March 23 to April 10). Graze as you go, on noodles and sticky rice balls from food stalls.

7. Maruyama Park

If Tokyo’s the epitome of modern; Kyoto’s the essence of tradition. Ancient teahouses rub shoulders with elaborate temples, while geisha scurry between the two on route to secret liaisons. Try Maruyama Park, where the main event is a tall shidarezakura weeping cherry tree illuminated at night, or the Philosopher’s Path — a canal path lined with hundreds of cherry trees.

8. Laki Ashi

This photograph was taken early on a November morning on the shore of Lake Ashino, in Hakone, Japan.

While the coastal city of Kamakura is known for its sandy beaches in summer, spring offers plenty of backdrops for your cherry blossom snaps — from huge bronze Buddha’s basking in the sun to the iconic Mount Fuji making an appearance as you sail along the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi.

9. Matsumae Park

Matsumae Park quietly shelters historical carvings in a clutch of temples: the swaying of cherry blossom ensuring the serenity of the Buddhist artefacts. Two hundred and fifty varieties of blossom stretch long into the season, their wooden name tags claiming their time in the spotlight, joined by the castle prettily illuminated as dusk descends.

10. Lake Kawaguchi (also known as Kawaguchi-ko)

The hot spring resort town of Lake Kawaguchi is the second largest of Fuji’s five lakes. Arrive early morning to gaze up through the mist at majestic Mount Fuji framed through the rose-coloured spectacle of the glorious blossoms, fluttering gently along the northern shores of the lapping lake.

11. Arashiyama

Ride the Sagano Romantic Train (£4 for one way) through a tunnel of sakurain Arashiyama.

12. Yamashina

Want to beat the crowds? In Kyoto, make for Yamashina, in the southeast of the city — you’ll find nearly 700 trees lining the canals, yet far fewer tourists.

Use XcelTrip to travel to Japan during the sakura and Olympic season to walk along the blossom covered streets and make memories that last a lifetime.

Travel Tips: Japan Edition

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For those who are planning a trip to Japan, this article might be a bit of help. we have listed essential Japan travel tips and advice which are especially useful for first timers to Japan. Check out things to know before and during your trip in Japan during the Olympics season:

Time:

JST (Japanese Standard Time) is 9 hours ahead of GMT and has No Daylight-Saving Time. From north to south, all Japan is in one time zone.

Climate:

Japan has four distinct seasons: Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August), Autumn (September to November) and Winter (December to February). The climate and temperature vary depending on season and area, and also each season offers different attractions and sightseeing spots.

Public Holidays:

It’s a simple advice but it’s better to check the Japanese calendar than not doing. Japan has 16 public holidays through the year, and tourist attractions get very very crowded or some may be closed on these days. Especially, the long weekend in May “Golden Week” and middle of August “Obon” are the busiest time of the year. It’s a wiser idea to avoid travelling on these periods in Japan.

Book Accommodation

Japan is one of the most popular countries to travel in the world, so booking accommodation in advance of your trip is essential especially during high season as many hotels tend to be fully booked. Besides regular hotels, there are various types of accommodation available in Japan where tourists can have unique “only in Japan” stay experiences such as Japanese style Ryokan inn and tiny budget capsule hotels.

Book Pocket WiFi

Japan is one of countries where having pocket WiFi could make a massive difference. The area with free public WiFi is expanding slowly but still it’s not like you can connect everywhere you go. Also as I will explain it later, travelling Japan sometimes could be harsh with language barrier, especially in countryside. So the internet could be the biggest savior for your trip to Japan.

Get Japan Rail Pass

If you are planning to travel multiple cities in Japan, Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a must-have item, and it can only be purchased outside of Japan which means you should place your order before coming to Japan. This “exclusive to foreigners” rail pass allow you to travel with any JR lines across the country including bullet trains (usually very pricey!). However, if you are only visiting Tokyo, this is not necessary item.

Exchange Money

According to many travellers to Japan, the exchange rate in Japan seems like higher than other countries. Also there are not many exchange counters on the street either. So it’s wiser to have some yen ready in your country before travelling and manage with your credit card while travelling.

Learning the culture

Japan has an unique own culture which is hard to understand for many and very interesting/valuable. While you are in Japan, it’s highly recommended to try one of cultural activities, such as kimono, tea ceremony and samurai training. These experiences could be done only in Japan and don’t miss a chance for the “once in your life time” kind of moment.

Be an early bird

Japan is basically a small sized country with a massive number of population. Everywhere you go, it seems packed even during week. If you are quite keen on photography and wanna capture views of some of famous tourist attractions like on magazines, it may be a bit of disturbance to have tons of people surround you and a subject. So the best way to avoid this situation is to get up early and go to the destination in early morning.

Download apps

Some apps can massively ease your trip like Google map&street view are must. Also transportation app is very useful, which can tell you the nearest station and how to get to your destination, as Tokyo’s (especially) Metro is like a spider web.

Use Suica wisely

If you are not familiar with Japanese money and wanna avoid fuss with dealing with coins, the best way is to use “SUICA” card rightly. It’s basically a electronic money card by JR to use for most of transportation in Japan, but it can be used for shopping too. It’s acceptable at most of convenience stores, vending machines, supermarkets, restaurants and more. You can purchase it or top-up at the ticket machine of any stations.

Use XcelTrip to travel to Japan during the Olympic season and follow the above tips to make your explorations easy to make memories that last a lifetime.

Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony

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Long regarded as one of the cornerstones of Japanese culture, the chadō, or tea ceremony, is a quintessential expression of aestheticism and philosophy in perfect harmony. But the story of how it came to be is an epic tale spanning centuries, including political intrigue, murder and suicide along the way.

The tea plant was brought to Japan in the 9th century by a Buddhist monk by the name of Eichū on his return from China, where tea had been in widespread use for centuries. Eichū served the drink to an emperor not long after and an imperial decree was issued to start cultivating tea plantations in Japan.

It would take another three centuries before tea ceremonies would become a spiritual practice. Initially, tencha, a type of matcha tea, was consumed at religious rituals in Buddhist monasteries.

But by the 13th century, tea had become a status symbol and samurai were participating in luxurious tea-tasting parties, where prizes were given out for guessing the correct variety of tea. The drink was seen as a decadent luxury, synonymous with Japanese nobility, and tensions started to emerge between opulence and minimalism in tea culture. These tensions would come to a bloody climax more than 200 years later.

In Today’s day and age however the Japanese tea ceremony is something of a tradition that ought never to be missed. Below is a step by step guide for a Japanese Tea Ceremony:

Prior to the ceremony, an invitation has to be sent to the guests and the teahouse has to be cleaned including any garden around it. The utensils have to be selected beforehand and the meal has to be prepared in advance.

Some of the steps of the ceremony change from one school to the other, and several elements, such as the time of the day, the season of the year, and the venue also modify some of the steps. There are some differences between the winter and the summer ceremony, mostly regarding the location of the kettle used to heat the water. However, the same general steps are followed in most cases:

1. The door to the tearoom is opened and the guests come into the room.

2. A tray of sweets or a meal is presented to the guests, depending on the formality of the ceremony and the time of the day.

3. The tea utensils are brought and displayed. The order in which they are presented is:

First, the Mizusashi, or cold water container.
Second is the Furo, a small stove made mostly of clay.
Third is the Chawa or tea bowl, the Chasen or tea whisker, and the Chashaku or teaspoon used to place tea in the bowl.
Fourth is the Natsume or tea container.
And fifth is the Kama or kettle and the kettle lid.

4. Greetings are exchanged. The tea preparer, or Teishu, focuses on entering the right meditative state of mind to prepare the best bowl of tea.

Use XcelTrip to travel to Japan for the Olympics this year and try the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Explore The Mysteries Of The Easter Island

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Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a UNESCO world heritage site, known for its hundreds of gigantic moai statues scattered all over the island. Check out the following places to explore the mysteries of Easter Island.

Rano Raraku

Known as ‘the nursery,’ the volcano of Rano Raraku, about 18km from Hanga Roa, is the quarry for the hard tuff from which the moai were cut. You’ll feel as though you’re stepping back into early Polynesian times, wandering among dozens of moai in all stages of progress studded on the southern slopes of the volcano. At the top, the 360-degree view is truly awesome. Within the crater are a small, glistening lake and about 20 standing moai.

On the southeastern slope of the mountain, look for the unique, kneeling Moai Tukuturi; it has a full body squatting on its heels, with its forearms and hands resting on its thighs.

Ahu Tongariki

The monumental Ahu Tongariki has plenty to set your camera’s flash popping. With 15 imposing statues, it is the largest ahu ever built. The statues gaze over a large, level village site, with ruined remnants scattered about and some petroglyphs nearby; some figures include a turtle with a human face, a tuna fish and a birdman motif.

The site was restored by a Japanese team between 1992 and 1996. A 1960 tsunami had flattened the statues and scattered several topknots far inland. Only one topknot has been returned to its place atop a moai.

Anakena

Beach bums in search of a place to wallow will love this postcard-perfect, white-sand beach. It also forms a lovely backdrop for Ahu Nau Nau, which comprises seven moai, some with topknots. On a rise south of the beach stands Ahu Ature Huki and its lone moai, which was re-erected by Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl with the help of a dozen islanders in 1956. Facilities include public toilets as well as food and souvenir stalls.

Orongo Ceremonial Village

Nearly covered in a bog of floating totora reeds, the crater lake of Rano Kau resembles a giant witch’s cauldron and is a wild greenhouse of endemic biodiversity. Perched 300m above, on the edge of the crater wall on one side and abutting a vertical drop plunging down to the cobalt-blue ocean on the other side, Orongo Ceremonial Village boasts one of the South Pacific’s most dramatic landscapes. It overlooks several small motu (offshore islands), including Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kao Kao.

Built into the side of the slope, the houses have walls of horizontally overlapping stone slabs, with an earth-covered arched roof of similar materials, making them appear partly subterranean. Orongo was the focus of an island-wide ‘birdman cult’ linked to the God Make in the 18th and 19th centuries. Birdman petroglyphs are visible on a cluster of boulders between the cliff top and the edge of the crater. Orongo is either a steepest climb or a short scenic drive 4km from the centre of town.

Use XcelTrip to plan your trip to Chile and explore the mysteries of the Easter Island to make memories that last a lifetime.

Tour France By Rail

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France is the largest nation in western Europe so train travel makes sense. Happily so, France has a fast and efficient train system and the French government has invested massively in high-speed trains (the TGV train or Train a Grande Vitesse), and on high-speed lines (LGV or igne à Grande VitesseL).

There are over 1700 km (1056 miles) of dedicated high-speed lines and thousands more of main lines and smaller lines so almost everywhere is accessible by train travel in France. The French rail network links all the major towns while also linking up many small towns in rural France. With careful planning, you can get around just using train travel during your vacation. Generally, the trains are on time, comfortable and relatively cheap. However, some trains run only at certain times on certain days, so you need very careful planning if you are traveling in rural France by train.

Like many capital cities, Paris suffers from having no central railway hub, but a number of mainline termini. Here are some of the main destinations served from the main stations.

Gare du Nord: Northeast France, London (Eurostar), Brussels, Amsterdam (Thalys), Lille, Valenciennes, Calais
Gare de l’Est: Nancy, Metz, Reims, Strasbourg, Germany, Luxembourg
Gare de Lyon: Lyon, Dijon, Besançon, Geneva, Mulhouse, Zurich, Clermont-Ferrand, Marseille, Nice, Nimes, Montpellier, Perpignan; Italy and the east of Spain
Gare d’Austerlitz: Tours, Poitiers, Limoges, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Biarritz, western Spain
Gare Montparnasse: All western TGVs, Brittany, Brest, Rennes, Nantes
Gare St. Lazare: Caen, Cherbourg, Rouen, Le Havre

All types of trains run in France, from the impressive TGV train and other high-speed trains to smaller branch lines. While there are still some lines operating old carriages, most of the trains are now comfortable, modern and have high tech additions like WiFi. Many have massive picture windows along the sides; others have an upper deck which gives you a wonderful view of the French countryside you are powering through.

The main types of trains in France are:

The TGV Train network (Train a Grande Vitesse) runs to major cities in France and Europe.
Intercites trains cover many of the medium distance routes between cities like Amiens, Orleans, Bordeaux, Caen, Lyon, Reims, Troyes, Toulouse, and Paris. They link cities in French regions like Nantes, Bordeaux, and Lyons-Nantes-Tours.
TER is the French regional service running from towns and villages over 21 regional networks in France.
AutoTrain sleeper service runs from Paris Bercy Station down to the south of France taking you and your car.

Source: https://www.european-traveler.com/

TGV train technology is used by other national rail carriers in Europe

TGV Lyria trains run through France into Switzerland
Eurostar runs between the UK, Lille, Paris, and Brussels
Thalys trains run to Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany

How and Where to Buy Tickets

Like most countries, ticket prices vary widely. If you can book early you will get good bargains, but you may well have to stick to a specific time. If you book that and miss the train, you may not get reimbursed.

Ticket prices are no higher on a TGV or express train than on a normal local line. And to compete with the low-cost airlines, TGV trains offer good prices for early bookings, and for the less popular times of trains. Internet booking is always a good idea.

All French train tickets can also be ordered online and you can then print them out on your computer as an e-ticket, exactly as the airlines do.

Visitors from the USA can buy online with Rail Europe and visitors from the UK can buy online with Voyages sncf (formerly Rail Europe UK).

Train Station Tips

Arrive early to find out which platform the train goes from. Paris train stations can be quite confusing.
There might not be good refreshments on the train; check in advance and if necessary, buy your own snacks/light lunches at the station.
You will have to validate your ticket. Look for the yellow machines (‘compostage de billets’) usually just before you reach the platform. Insert your tickets into the slot and retrieve it. Ticket inspectors will check your ticket on the train and if it is not validated will probably find you.

Adventure Sports To Try Before You Die

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Ready to feel your pulse racing? From volcano boarding to cave diving, bungee jumping to kitesurfing, we’ve put together 8 adrenaline pumping adventure sports to try before you die and the stunning destinations that go with it.

Volcano boarding

Pioneered by an Australian traveller in León, Nicaragua, volcano boarding is the art of zooming down the face of an active volcano on a reinforced plywood toboggan. Using your heels to brake and steer, it’s possible to clock speeds of up to 90km/hr. That’s after you’ve hiked up the volcano, of course. Head to Leon’s Big Foot Hostel to try out volcano boarding.

Freshwater cave diving

Ocean scuba is extreme enough for some, but descending into a hole in the earth to explore a submerged cave system is next-level stuff. Stalactites are usually the big draw. Head to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has the world’s largest concentration of cenotes (sinkholes). Fringed by lush jungle, its crystal-clear turquoise pools are idyllic.

Heli-skiing or boarding

Using a whirlybird to access untouched terrain, heli-skiing is quite technical, and you’ll get more bang (or in this case, powder) for your buck if you’re an advanced skier or snowboarder.

Widely banned in Europe, heli-skiing is popular in North America and New Zealand. Alaska’s Chugach Mountains boast some of the world’s deepest, softest powder. Visit Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, a luxury lodge near Anchorage, to learn from some of the best backcountry ski guides in the world. Dreamy views of Denali and volcanic summits sure don’t hurt either.

Zorbing

Another Kiwi invention, zorbing (also known as sphereing, orbing and globe-riding) is the act of rolling down a hill in a transparent plastic ball. Opt to zorb solo, with friends, and/or with water — all in the name of fun. The original zorb company is based in Rotorua, but you’ll find outfits all over the world. Try it in Hatta, Dubai.

Bungee jumping

Inspired by Vanuatu’s ritualistic land divers, the modern sport of diving off a ledge while attached to a safety cord was popularised by Kiwi entrepreneur AJ Hackett.

Hackett-owned Macau Tower boasts the world’s highest commercial jump point (233m), but the original Kawarau Bridge Bungy in Queenstown (43m) and Victoria Falls Bungee in Zambia (111m) are more scenic.

Slacklining

Proponents call this evolution of tightrope walking, in which participants manoeuvre across a strip of nylon held taut between two anchor points just above the ground. It might not look particularly extreme, but it’s very tough (and great core exercise).

Particularly agile? Look into slacklining yoga across the USA with YogaSlackers. Super adventurous? Try highlighting in Joshua Tree National Park in California. Or simply DIY with your own slackline (shop online at Gibbon Slacklines).

Cheese rolling

Originating in Gloucester, England, in the 15th century, this injury-prone activity sees participants charge down a steep hill in pursuit of a round of cheese. Gloucester’s annual Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling is the world’s largest competition.

Ice swimming

Northern Europeans have been partial to an icy dip between sauna sessions for centuries, but the more modern International Ice Swimming Association (IISA) deems an official ice swim as a one-mile swim in water below 5°C while wearing a standard swimming costume.

It’s popular in the UK, Germany, Ireland, Finland, Russia, France, USA, and the Netherlands. If you want to make your first solo swim official, register your witnessed attempt with the IISA.

Use XcelTrip to attempt all the above adventure sports to try before you die and make memories that last a lifetime.

Satiate Your Traditional Cuisine Cravings In Chile

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Being such a long stretched out country covering a variety of landscapes, Chile has a vast range of dishes to offer. While the highlights of Chile dishes are fish and seafood, we put a spotlight on the authentic and everyday Chilean foods you will find across the country. We discovered and wrote about seafood found along the long Pacific Ocean coastline. In Santiago, at the famous Mercado Central, we experienced locos (abalone) and pastel de jaiba (crab pie). Further north in the city of Valparaiso, we fell in love with a colorful city and incredible Reinata fish, a local white fish specialty. The high-quality Chilean wines are not to be missed. Maipo Valley, considered the “Bordeaux of South America’ has exceptional wines. And Maule Valley, the largest and oldest wine region in the country, has several family-owned vineyards, offering small intimate tours. The below list of food will satiate your traditional cuisine cravings in Chile, this summer:

Valdiviano

A meal originated in the Santiago garrison. On the trip by train from the Capital city to the South of Chile, before getting to the train station in Valdivia and after a long night, this thick soup was served that contained egg, onion, meat and mixed vegetables. When getting off the train in Valdivia, the body had already recovered and acclimatized to the change of temperature there.

Pollo al barro

Take a young, tender chicken, hopefully one not much ran around in the vegetable garden. Wash it, smear it with garlic salt and wrap it in plastic. Then, make a paste with mud and cover the chicken. Take the preparation to an earth oven and wait with infinite patience, as the chicken will cook in its own juices.

Sopaipillas

This is a typically Chilean type of flat circular deep-fried bread or scone, made from flour, cooked pumpkin, a pinch of salt and lard. In the beginnings, it was called sopaipa and it originated back during the Arabic invasion of Spain, where it was a kind of dough dunked in oil. The Spanish conquistadors brought it with them and it took root in our land where it accompanies the cold, rainy days in the South or a well-spiced Chancho en Piedra (see description) in the Central zone. Nowadays, the sopaipilla is available from north to south in those street vendor kiosks that are usually located at bus stations, busy corners in any city and even at sport events in our land. Always ready for the winter, the sopaipilla pasá is a sopaipilla dunked in a viscous mixture of dark-brown sugar called chancaca (see description) with orange peel, clove and chuño (dried potato flour). Delicious on a rainy winter evening.

Porotos granados

Although in some cases we share meals and preparations with other Latin-American nations, in the case of Porotos Granados the invention is absolutely Chilean. With fresh coscorrones variety beans, corn, pumpkin, onion, garlic and basil this is a summertime dish. It can be made with mashed fresh corn, called mazamorra, where you can stand the spoon on the dish, or with whole fresh corn, called pilco, a more liquid version, if you are expecting more guests.

Prietas

The prieta from the South is served with steamed potatoes and under the homely heat of a brazier. It is a wintry dish found in traditional butcher’s shops. It is possible to find it in some very typical restaurant or in some eatery, because, as with other national meals, it doesn’t succeed into penetrating the more exclusive gastronomical circles.

Pichanga

This low profile, unpretentious dish does not belong to the gastronomical circles and is kept at bay in the more traditional eateries. It is made of diced meat, olives, pickles, cheese, tomatoes and avocados. The idea is to nibble this appetizer while you wait for the main course; as such, it is an opportunity to share with friends.

Pataska

The altiplanic people from the North of Chilemake this spicy stew from charqui (salted/dried meat), mote (boiled maize) and potatoes. It is part of the tradition of Chiu-Chiu, a village in the Atacama, where it is prepared for typical festivities in honor of the Pachamama, for the harvests and cattle.

Ajiaco

This is not strictly speaking a Chilean dish; for instance, it is also found in Bogotá, Colombia. However, the Chilean version is generally done with the meat leftovers of a big barbecue, and it is good when you have a somewhat mild hangover. Into the broth with the barbecued meat cut into dice, add potatoes, chopped onions, green hot chili peppers, parsley, salt, pepper, cumin and oregano. This tasty soup helps to mend the body or the hangover and to get one’s strength back, whether it is to go to work or to continue celebrating whatever it is that has to be celebrated.

Use XcelTrip to travel this summer to try food that would satiate your traditional cuisine cravings in Chile and make memories that last a lifetime.

Wonderful Chilean Cities To Visit This Summer

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With easy access to beautiful landscapes and fascinating urban attractions, there are numerous cities across Chile that are well worth a visit. The following wonderful Chilean cities to visit this summer, combine the very best of the country’s diverse natural beauty and metropolitan appeal.

Pucón

A nine-hour drive south from Santiago, Pucón is the ideal city for adventure tourism. Located on the Villarica Lake with the active Villarrica volcano nearby, Pucón has numerous trekking and water sports opportunities for tourists. Miles of hike and bike paths surround the hilly terrain around the lake, ripe for exploration. In the city, you can easily rent bikes, kayaks or other equipment, or arrange activities like zipline rides and skydiving. In the area, there are also waterfalls, hot springs and caves accessible through local buses or tourism companies.

Santiago

Almost half of Chileans call Santiago and its surrounding area home. It’s easily Chile’s most metropolitan city, highly developed and home to Latin America’s tallest skyscraper, Costanera Center. Santiago presents diverse tourism opportunities, thanks to its many hills and parks, artisan fairs, unique neighborhoods, emerging foodie scene and vibrant nightlife. It’s also conveniently located next to the Andes mountains, Chilean wine country, with the coast just an 90-minute drive away.

Coyhaique

Set in the beautiful landscape of the Northern Chilean Patagonia, Coyhaique is the largest city in the area and is the urban center for the region. As such there are various malls, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs for visitors to check out. While the setting of the city is stunning with the impressive mountains rearing up all around it, most visitors use it as a base from which to explore the nearby natural wonders. With fantastic trekking, fly-fishing and mountaineering on offer, the surrounding delights of Patagonian ice caps and the lovely sights that line the winding Carretera Austral road make Coyhaique worth stopping by.

Valdivia

As the most important university town in the south of the country, Valdivia has a lot of cheap bars, restaurants and cafes as well as a thriving arts scene which gives the city a youthful feel to it. Lying at the spot where the Calle and Cruces rivers join, it is a picturesque place surrounded by waters and wetlands and old colonial buildings are interspersed among more modern edifices. Following Chile´s independence, German settlers flocked to the area and as such there are some great local beers and atmospheric bars. Every year the local brewery puts on a bierfest with German music and performances by folk bands.

Castro

A scenic city, Castro lies at the head of a fjord on Chiloe Island and its brightly colored wooden houses that sit on stilts above the water give a distinctive feel to the place. Modern buildings mix seamlessly in with its older buildings and churches and thanks to its range of fantastic trendy restaurants it is considered a gastronomic destination. Castro is a surprisingly cosmopolitan city for its location although the local Chilote culture still shines through. Many visitors to the city use it as a base to explore the island and the nearby archipelago.

Vina del Mar

Situated just outside of Valparaiso, Vina Del Mar couldn´t be more different. Clean and uncluttered, leafy avenues cut through the city before palaces and parks give way to the tower blocks that look out over the expansive beach. Nicknamed Garden City, there are some fantastic botanical gardens on offer and although various parts of the city have retained their elegance and charm, large parts of Vina Del Mar look just like any other beach resort around the world with the usual casino, restaurants and bars. It is very popular however for its lovely beaches and every year hordes of people visit for its amazing music festival.

Iquique

Spectacularly located at the foot of a desolate coastal mountain range with a gigantic sand dune overlooking it, Iquique is a bustling cosmopolitan city with a fantastic beachfront. As it borders the Pacific Ocean and is in a duty-free shopping zone, an eclectic mix of people descend on the city with surfers and casino goers, paragliders and shoppers all equally at ease in Iquique. One of the best beach resorts in Chile, its lovely oceanfront promenade makes for a peaceful and scenic walk as wooden walkways add to its charm. As well as lounging on the perfect beaches, surfing in its waters or paragliding above the dunes, Iquique is also a great place from which to explore the northern part of Chile.

Valparaiso

Charming yet messy, colorful but falling apart; Valparaiso´s stunning setting overlooking the ocean only adds to its uniqueness. With winding streets and stairways dripping down the hillsides of the city to the water down below and vibrant street art and brightly painted decaying buildings, Valparaiso is a delight to explore and has long drawn artists and thinkers to its shores. Despite its bohemian feel, the city is quite grimy and edgy as sailors and prostitutes dot its streets and there are a couple of crime-riddled areas which tourists should avoid. Having said that, Valparaiso is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country and when you see its old town full of atmospheric cafes and bars around the port area; you´ll surely fall in love with this idiosyncratic place.

Use XcelTrip to travel to the above wonderful Chilean cities to visit this summer and make memories that last a lifetime.

Traditional Foods To Try In Peru

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In 2016, Peru was crowned as “World’s Leading Culinary Destination” by the World Travel Awards for the fifth year in a row. It was just 10 years ago that Peru’s gastronomic boom began, reinventing dishes that had a long tradition in the kitchens of Peruvian families. While a second gastronomic boom of organic and healthy food seems to be happening nowadays, every Peruvian dish offered in restaurants around the world was based on an earlier and more original one. Learn about the most traditional food to try in Peru:

Aji de gallina

There are different stories about the origins of the creamy aji de gallina. Historians say that when Peru was a Spanish colony, a dish that came from Europe made with chicken breast and Arab seasoning became a prototype of aji de gallina. Another story claims that poor citizens collected the hen bones that were thrown away by the rich and took the remains to their houses where they added chili and bread to make a bigger meal. The aji de gallina is nowadays made mostly with chicken, bread, potatoes, olives and eggs, and is one of the most original dishes that Peru has to offer.

Ceviche

Ancient Peruvians ate ceviche with lots of chili, locally known as ají. Peruvian ceviche is the only one with a preparation that consists in quickly soaking the fish in lemon juice and then immediately serving it, according to expert ceviche chef Javier Wong. Preparing a ceviche is an art that Peruvians like to experiment with to make other dishes like quinoa ceviche.

Cuy chactado

Cuy means guinea pig. Cuy chactado is fried guinea pig. Before it was brought to Europe and made a pet, guinea pig was already served as a meal and domesticated in almost every home in the highlands. It’s mostly served in Andean cities such as Cusco and Arequipa. An ancient custom says that if you dig through the guinea pig’s ears and find a tiny fox-shaped bone and drink it with chicha de jora, you’ll gain psychic abilities.

Tacacho con cecina

Welcome to the jungle. This amazonian dish consists of tacacho, a mushed bellaco plantain, and cecina, dry and smoked pork. It is usually served with chorizo and, depending on where they’re making it, it can be served with collared peccary meat. It is considered a must if you visit the Amazon region, especially Iquitos, Madre de Dios and San Martín, although it is not hard to find tacacho con cecina in Lima.

Carapulcra con sopa seca

This dish is served mostly in the southern coastal towns of Peru and it’s a mix of Peruvian and Italian cuisine. Carapulcra is a stew of peanuts, chicken, ají panca and dehydrated potatoes. It is served with sopa seca, a noodle dish with heavy seasoning. It is commonly served at weddings and other family events.

Kamlu wantan

This list would not be complete without a Chinese-Peruvian dish. As a result of the first Chinese colony that arrived at Peru in the 19th century, a new twist to Peruvian cuisine changed its history forever: Chifa (Chinese-Peruvian fusion cuisine). Kamlu wantan is one of those dishes that is always seen on tables at Chifa restaurants. It’s a sweet and sour dish that consists of pork, chicken, onions and peppers, and also includes seafood like shrimp, all dipped in tamarind sauce. It is served with wontons.

Lomo saltado

There’s nothing more Peruvian than lomo saltado. As a country that hosts diverse cultures, the birth of this dish could only have been possible because of culture clashes in the kitchen. For example, lomo saltado got its special flavor from the woks brought by Chinese immigrants. Combine sliced steak, red onions, french fries, ají amarillo or chili and you’ve got the basic recipe. This dish is considered the father of many other traditional Peruvian dishes such as tallarín saltado (noodle with lomo saltado), tacu tacu (beans and rice) with loin, among others.

Choritos a la chalaca

Back in the coastal restaurants of Peru, choritos a la chalaca make the best appetizers on any summer day. Originated in the portal city of Callao, this dish consists of mussels filled with onions, tomatoes, and corn kernels, while the rest cooks with the lime juice, just like a ceviche would. You do not even need a fork to eat choritos a la chalaca.

Use the above list of traditional foods to try in Peru to make memories that last a lifetime with XcelTrip.

Travel To Maldives This Valentine’s Day

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Here are 10 things to do in Maldives to unravel the many romantic moments to be cherished eternally. All of these experiences cater to the taste buds of each and every kind of traveller. Do not forget to indulge in water sports when in Maldives! Take a look all the options that one has when it comes to the question of what to do inMaldives this Valentine’s Day:

Island Hopping

You will find around 200 immensely beautiful inhabited islands dotting the Maldives. If this doesnt tempt you enough, wait until you visit the capital city of Mal-. Mal- is amongst the many exotic places to visit in Maldives for honeymoon. The 80 beautiful islands with luxurious resorts are the best tourist spots especially for couples to enjoy their leisure time with no one but your personal share of paradise! Going from one island to another, soaking in a completely different beauty every time is one of the must things to do in Maldives this Valentine’s Day.

Diving

Go diving amidst gazillion reefs. Explore a titillating adventure with your loved one amidst gazillion coral reefs and azure crystal-clear waters. One of the most exciting things to do in Maldives is experiential diving especially, for couples who will get enough moments amidst the divine sea life to deepen their love-strings. You can also choose to go snorkeling. Witness colorful fish, mantas, eagle rays, turtles and dolphins while you snorkel with your partner along with the marine biologist guide.

Submarine Ride

Add some adrenaline and a new vigor to your romantic day by exploring the depths of the ocean in an amazing submarine ride. It is one of the most fun things to do on your Maldives honeymoon. You can book a Whale Submarine off Mal- through your resort. This descending adventure into the blue will show you everything from shipwrecks to sharks.

Hiking

Maldives’ history gives you a chance to unleash your royal side. One of the best places to visit in Maldives is the National Museum with your partner. Also, walk like a sultan and his queen amidst the beautiful minarets and tombs of the ancient Friday Mosque with a breathtaking view of the grand pre-World War I palace, which today houses the many presidential offices.

Luxury Cruising

Safari boats are popularly known as floating luxury in Maldives. A honeymoon in Maldives is incomplete without a ride in the floating luxury or the safari boats. You, along with your partner, will be exploring the little deserted islands and staring at the depths of the ocean hand in hand. And you will never forget the experience of dining under the stars while the waves splash at the hull.

Swimming

The Indian Ocean surrounding the Maldives is known for its crystal-clear waters. Then, why not take a swim with your boo on your honeymoon and have a little frolic in the sea- The tranquillity and the views of the sea will put you both at peace and in harmony. It is one of the great suggestions for couples who don’t want to do much on their Valentine’s Day vacation but relax.

Coral Reefs

Traveling to Maldives and not witnessing the beautiful coral reefs is a trip wasted. Maldives is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and adopting one is a great thing to do for our environment. Give it a thought and take your partner along to Iruveli Maldives and adopt a coral reef from the restoration program initiated by Alexia Pihier. Witnessing coral reefs in their maiden land is definitely one of the must things to do inMaldives this Valentine’s Day.

National Museum

Sneak the past days of the Maldives by visiting the National Museum located in the Sultan Park. The museum comprises enormous historical artifacts including royal artifacts, stone objects, and significant antiquities from the Buddhist epoch. If you have a love for history and love exploring the past days of the places then surely head to this illuminating museum in the Maldives. Strolling around and getting an insight into the anicent days is one of the most incredible things to do in Maldives this Valentine’s Day.

Travel To Maldives This Valentine’s Day with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

Internet Surges 300% In North Korea Over The Past 3 Years

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North Korea’s internet use saw a 300% surge over the past three years, as the country’s regime has continued to rely on cryptocurrenciesfor various activities.

Titled “How North Korea Revolutionized the Internet as a Tool for Rogue Regimes,” the study was releasedon Feb. 9 by Insikt Group, an intelligence arm of the United States-based cybersecurity firm Recorded Future. The report analysed North Korean senior leadership’s internet activity between Jan. 1, 2019 and Nov. 1, 2019.

According to the study, North Korea has continued to exploit cryptocurrencies as a strategic weapon, with the country’s political and military elite being reportedly involved in massive hacks of South Korean crypto exchanges, scams, cryptojacking, and crypto mining.

Along with illicit banking processes and low-level information technology work and financial crime, the generation and theft of cryptocurrencies have become a major tool to create revenue and circumvent international sanctions and regulations, the study says.

According to Insikt, the internet has become a critical tool for North Korean leaders, providing not only a source for revenue generation, but also an instrument for obtaining prohibited knowledge such as data on ballistic missile programs and cyber operations. The study also noted that North Koreans that are involved in cybercrime are often sent abroad to get advanced training and nuclear-related knowledge banned by the United Nations.

In 2019, Insikt continued to trace North Korean agents in eight countries including India, China, Nepal, Kenya, Mozambique, Indonesia, Thailand and Bangladesh. Specifically, the intelligence team suggested that China and India are the two major countries that unwittingly host and enable North Korea’s illicit operations.

North Korean hackers have allegedly taken responsibility for a number of hacks and phishing attacks of South Korean crypto exchanges such as UpBit. According to data from the United Nations, North Korea generated an estimated $2 billion by hacking banks and crypto exchanges, as reported by Cointelegraph in August 2019.

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Romance Never Dies In Greece

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Greece is one of the most romantic countries on earth. It’s a honeymoon hotspot for a reason. Its beautiful beaches are the perfect setting for sunset watching, and the picturesque towns make for a romantic hand-in-hand afternoon stroll. With a truly authentic food scene and a plethora of historic landmarks to visit, there’s no shortage of things to do in Greece with your loved one. Here are 8 palaces to visit with your partner that prove that romance never dies in Greece:

SANTORINI

Santorini is quite possibly the most romantic place in all of Europe. With the all-white aesthetic of the houses and old churches, it feels almost otherworldly. Santorini got its interesting shape and cliffs from an aggressive volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. It’s on the top of the list for destination weddings and honeymoons meaning there’s a variety of activity choices to keep couples entertained during their stays. With Sunsets to die for and a modern, yet traditional food scene, Santorini has to be added to your couple’s bucket list.

MYKONOS

Mykonos is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Greece, usually for its insane party scene, but it has so much more to offer. With many luxury spas and hotels catering to honeymoons and couples looking for a vacation, the accommodations in Mykonos are sure to create the romantic feel you’re going for. Mykonos can be on the pricier side, but the money is well worth the beauty and views. The Island’s stunning beaches are a perfect place to soak up some vitamin D, and at least you have someone to hit those hard to reach places with sun lotion.

HYDRA

Hydra is a small island near Athens. In Greek mythology, Hydra was a serpent monster with 3 heads. Legend says that if you cut off one of Hydra’s heads, 2 more will grow back in its place.

This little island is known for its beautiful ports. With a ban on vehicle transportation within the whole island, you’ll be getting around on foot or by donkey. Hydra is a very traditional and authentic representation of Greek culture. This super small Island is remote and is sure to bring you and your loved one the peace and quiet you’re looking for.

METEORA

Meteora is mostly a scenic destination meant to explore. Its natural environment is truly breathtaking and great for hiking or rock climbing. The hiking trails are long and require a map, but the view is well worth the extra steps. What better way to experience this historic place than to share it with your significant other.

CHALKI VILLAGE

This village was formerly the capital of the island Naxos. Also, know as Halki, this village is stunning and unlike the whitewashed look, you would associate with Greece. It’s old mansions and churches are testimony to the wealth this village once had. Apart from the old buildings, its colorful alleys add a uniqueness to the village. With a special energy that quite literally oozes from the architecture, it makes for a perfect backdrop to take pictures together or to roam around on a lazy vacation day. The romance is in the walls at Chalki Village.

RHODES

Rhodes is the most popular vacation destination in Greece due to its rich history and attractions. Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval settlements and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical town tells a story told by what was left behind. It was also home to the Colossus of Rhodes. Although Its remains can not be seen today, the Colossus of Rhodes was one of the seven wonders of the Ancient world, adding to Rhodes’ deep history. The valley of butterflies canyon is a nature reserve, home to butterflies during the last stage of their life cycle.

CRETE

Crete is the largest island in Greece, known for its stunning terrain. Between mountains, caves and fine-sand beaches, Crete has a variety of views to consider. Ideon Cave in Crete is said to be the birthplace of Zeus according to Greek Mythology. Mount Ida is the highest mountain in Crete and well worth the hike. Balos Lagoon is featured in most Crete travel-guides for a reason and continues to be one of the most stunning locations in Greece. With thousands of years of culture and history, there is no shortage of things to see in Crete.

MILOS

Milos is often overlooked by tourists, overshadowed by the traditional vacation destinations of Athens, Santorini or Mykonos. It has a romantic history in the form of art. The Venus de Milo sculpture was discovered in Milos and has now found a new home in the famous Louvre in Paris.

Its sculpture represents Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty. It’s sandy and unique beaches add character to this already stunning island. Milos is a great way to experience Greece without the large crowds you might find at the other islands.

Use XcelTrip to plan your Valentine’s day and visit the above 8 destinations, with your partner, that prove that romance never dies in Greece and make memories that last a lifetime.

Take A Romantic Vacation To New York City

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If you are looking for a perfect spot to kiss or a perfect date destination to propose or to enjoy your honeymoon, take a romantic vacation New York Cityand visit the below 6 locations with your partner to keep the love and romance alive.

Brooklyn Botanical Garden

Well, if you are planning a trip here around Valentine’s Day, the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens might get a bit too chilly outside but on April this is heaven with cherry blossoms in full bloom, you won’t find anything more romantic than in here.

Brooklyn Promenade

Someone said if you want to grasp the expansive beauty of New York City, you have to look at it from a distance. It’s around the Brooklyn Promenade where you get a spectacular view of lower Manhattan! Here you will get all the delicious nearby options and you get to visit the famed River Café then there is the Grimaldis’ and the Jacques Torres Chocolate Shop.

Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Centre

Source: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/

How about romancing in ice, skate your way to love and try the Ice-skating rink at the Rockefeller Centre. Here in the Centre there is a famous statue in black of Prometheus. During the holiday season, it’s a bit crowded but if you want a quiet time it is recommended to skip the holiday season. Spend a couple of hours skating on the ice and you will get a sense of what it’s like to have a true romantic afternoon in the Rock Centre Ice Rink.

New York City’s Waterways and Statue of liberty

Manhattan and romance are almost synonymous in New York and the New Yorkers just can’t get enough of the Manhattan waterfront adventures. Be it those amazing scenic cruises or just an adventure of kayaking, you get everything you want in the waterfront of Manhattan. What gained more popularity as a ‘cheap date’ is the customary trip taking the Staten Island Ferry from Battery Park City. The Ferry is free and here you get to see the insanely famous American iconography, the very Statue of Liberty.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

This one is dedicated to serious romancing couples; here in the Metropolitan Museum of Art you will find ample artefacts from Ancient Rome and even more from the modern and contemporary era that has contributed to the museum’s collection. Well it’s not only the arts, there are other respites too, detour to the Balcony bar that overlooks the Great Hall. If you are planning a visit between May and late Fall you can also hit the rooftop bar and enjoy a couple of drinks together.

Empire State Building

Looking for some romantic places in New York city at night without scanning out the empire state building, yes, it is impossible if you haven’t seen the sight from the top of the city with your sweetheart, New York might not have exposed all its romantic charms to you! This view from the top is a winner and nothing beats the sight from atop the Empire State Building on a clear day while at night one can gaze at the city getting alive below.

Central Park

If you are talking about romance you have to talk about central park where one can enjoy a boat ride with their partner. Take your boat under the Bow Bridge and reach the Belvedere Castle, it’s almost as if you are in a fantasy of your own! Apart from this one can also find the Conservatory Garden at the Central Park where one can spend some relaxing time.

Tiffany’s

Pretend as if you are someone like Miss Holly Golightly, get munching on a pastry or something and enjoy the absolute charm of window shopping outside the famous Tiffany’s. And if you get too daring into romancing you can head inside and check out the gifts.

Use XcelTrip to take a romantic vacation to New York City and visit the below 6 locations with your partner to keep the romance alive to make memories that last a lifetime.

Romance Never Dies In Hawaii

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Hawaii is synonymous with romance, evoking the imagination with the scent of gardenias, lush vegetation, the salty sea air and the magnificent sunsets. While lying on the beach sipping mai tais with your loved one is romantic, there are so many places to go and things to do on Oahu that take the wedding cake regarding romantic sightseeing and adventure. Add these romantic ideas to your itinerary for a memorable vacation that you’ll talk about for years to come.

LA MER AT HALEKULANI

Enjoy an opulent three- or four-course dinner with ocean breezes at La Mer, one of two AAA Five Diamond restaurants on Oahu. The menu features dishes inspired by flavors from the South of France using fresh local ingredients. Some featured delectables include poached lobster, foie gras, filet of beef with foie gras and truffle mousseline, and an end-of-dinner cheese cart for an added French je-ne-sais-quoi. Be sure to order a glass from the restaurant’s award-winning wine list.

BLUE NOTE HAWAII

Blue Note Hawaii is a premier jazz venue that brings artists from around the world. It’s in a 9,000-square-foot facility inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. Performers have included Grammy-winning trumpeter Chris Botti (pictured above), Taylor Hicks, WAR, Living Colour and the Manhattan Transfer, as well as such local greats as Jake Shimabukuro, Henry Kapono and Willie K. There are two performances each night, seven days a week, so any time is a good time for a slow dance.

WAIKIKI BEACH

Waikiki Beach is Oahu’s most famous stretch of sand, though it’s only one of six along the Waikiki neighborhood. The waterfront is full of resorts, hotels, restaurants and shopping areas.

During the day, it is perfect for surfing and sunning, but at night — because nearly every hotel room is just a couple of blocks from the shore — it’s a relaxing place to listen to the rhythmic sound of crashing waves. Afterward, stroll hand-in-hand, barefoot, along the palm-lined beach — or sit side-by-side on a towel — and watch one of the most majestic and romantic sunsets in the world.

After the sun sets, stroll over to Hilton Hawaiian Village and watch the spectacular fireworks display, which is presented every Friday at 7:45 pm.

PALI LOOKOUT

Is it love that makes you feel like you’re floating on a breeze? Or is it the dizzying 1,000-foot height and the strong trade winds blowing through the mountains at Nuuanu Pali Lookout? The scenic stop is on a pass-through of the Koolau Mountain Range that connects one side of Oahu to the other. The powerful winds make it a multisensory experience with spectacular views of the valleys, the windward coast and the expansive blue waters of the Pacific. Be sure to hold each other tightly — for romantic and practical reasons — as strong gusts can reach up to speeds of 74 mph.

SPITTING CAVES OF PORTLOCK

This spot may be difficult to find at first as the trailhead is at the end of a road in a small East Oahu neighbourhood. The steep trail leads to a shoreline of volcanic rock carved by the sea. They can be very slippery so be careful climbing down, but it’s worth the effort, especially at sunrise or sunset. The waves slam into the cliffs in a dramatic display, worthy of an Instagram moment. Snap a selfie of you and your sweetie and watch the waves, the sun and each other.

ISLA TANGO

For a unique and sexy date, take a tango lesson from tango maestro George Garcia. His Isla Tango offers classes for all skill levels, either in weekly lessons or on a drop-in basis. Learn common sequences and how to properly execute them: Boleos, Sacadas, Molienetes and Ganchos. Each month focuses on a special topic while milongas and practicas are held weekly to practice what you’ve learned and dance the night away.

Use XcelTrip to plan your Valentine’s Day with the above list of 6 romantic things to do in Oahu, Hawaii and make memories that last a lifetime.

10 Romantic Things To Do In Kyoto, Japan

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Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist spots in Japan without a doubt. Known to be a place saturated with Japanese culture, tradition and nature, many experiences the best of Japan in Kyoto. It is also one of the places where couples visit together, and here is a list of 10 romantic things to do in Kyoto, Japan:

The breath-taking scenery of Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a place that used to be a villa of aristocrats in the past, and is today a famous tourist spot in Kyoto. At Arashiyama, many visit this particular bridge called the Togetsukyo Bridge. This bridge provides one of the most amazing views of Arashiyama. Bright pink Sakura flowers can be enjoyed in spring, while the mountain transforms to shades of orange and red in autumn.

A stroll through the Bamboo Forest

Sagano Road of Bamboo Forest was opened in 2015. Located slightly north of Nonomiya Shrine, this cooling and almost spiritual bamboo forest will allow you to enjoy one of Japan’s most iconic scenes. Opened from 9 am to 5 pm daily, this forest can be enjoyed all year round.

The panoramic view from Shogunzuka Seiryuden

Shogunzuka Seiryuden is a temple that was opened in 2014. The temple compounds can be accessed and you can learn some of the history of Kyoto there. One of the greatest appeals of Shogunzuka Seiryuden is the fantastic panoramic view offered from the viewing point there. Not only will you get to enjoy a bird’s eye view of Kyoto, you can also see many of Kyoto’s famous spots such as the Kiyomizu-dera as well as the beautiful mountains surrounding the prefecture.

Meet the God of Love at Jishu Shrine

Kyoto is known to have a lot of temples and shrines, but one of the most famous shrines for Love Luck is Jishu Shrine. In front of the main shrine compound, there are 2 rocks placed about 10 meters (33 feet) apart, called the “Koiuranai no Ishi” which means the stones of love. It is said that if you are able to walk from one stone to another with eyes closed, you will have good love luck.

A cathartic time at Kyoto Kaleidoscope Museum

Kaleidoscopes are mysterious and sometimes extremely cathartic to look at. They were invented in 1816 and introduced to Japan in 1819, spreading through the country as people got allured by them. Various kaleidoscopes from different eras can be enjoyed at the Kyoto Kaleidoscope Museum. Not only that, there are also courses available to make your very own kaleidoscope.

Experience Kyoto via Shirakawa River

Just like Kamogawa River, Shirakawa River is another that flows through the prefecture and many people begin their stroll from Heian Shrine. It then connects to the Sanjo area where various popular tourist spots are located. It is especially recommended to take a stroll along the river in spring as the Sakura flowers will bloom, creating an amazing scenery along the river. Great sunsets can also be viewed here too.

Café hopping along Tetsugaku no Michi

Tetsugaku no Michi literally translates to “Road of Wisdom ‘’. It is named as such as a tribute to Nishida Kitarou — a renowned philosopher from Kyoto University who used to frequent this path. The path begins from Kumanyakuouji Shrine to Ginkakuji Shrine along a river. You can take a relaxing stroll along the road, enjoying the scenery and various nature that can be enjoyed. In summer, fireflies can be seen at the river too! Various cafes are located along the path that will serve as fantastic resting spots. One of the recommended cafés is Yojiya Café, where the Macha Cappuccino is extremely popular.

Appreciate the beauty of nature at Kyoto Botanical Garden

Kyoto Botanical Garden is conveniently located just 5 minutes from Kitayama Station of the Subway Karasuma Line. With over 90 years of history, it is a place loved by tourists and locals alike. Kyoto Botanical Garden can be enjoyed all year long and various seasonal flowers are on display such as Sakura in spring.

The street lit up by lanterns — Pontocho

Pontochois one of the best places to visit after sunset. This street is where many Maikos and Geikos belong to, and you will be able to watch the traditional Japanese performances at the theaters there. Also, various stores line the street where great local food is served. Lit by lanterns, this is definitely one of the must-visit places for a great dinner and traditional Japanese performances.

Enjoy the deep blue sea in Kyoto Aquarium

Kyoto Aquarium was opened in 2012 and is the biggest inland aquarium in Japan. Over 250 species of marine life are exhibited at the Kyoto Aquarium such as penguins, dolphins and seals. There are various shows that can be enjoyed at Kyoto Aquarium too. One of the highlights of Kyoto Aquarium is the African Penguin exhibit, located near the entrance, where you can watch the cute birds swimming above you.

Use XcelTrip to try out all the 10 romantic things to do in Kyoto, Japan this Valentine’s day to make memories that last a lifetime.

Make Your Romantic Dreams Come True In Paris

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Paris is like nowhere else when it comes to love. This is a city that encourages all in it to be free, light of spirit and carefree. Venice, Rome and New York all lay claim to being romantic, but Paris has its own special aura, because the City of Light is also the City of Love. Whether it’s lounging on the grass outside The Museum of Romantic Life, purring sweet nothings under the Eiffel Tower or embracing in front of “The Wall of I Love You”, Paris is the ultimate place of the heart, as you’ll find in our selection of the 6 Romantic Destinations To Visit in Paris With Your Partner This Valentine’s Day:

The Butte Montmartre

Montmartre is renowned as the home of artists, of dancers, the can-can and as the setting of the romantic film ‘Amelie’. Known by the French as “the Butte Montmartre”, at its peak there’s the extraordinary architecture of the Sacré-Coeur, the great Church of the Sacred Heart, which some say has echoes of the Taj Mahal. From there there’s the essential romantic view of Paris, with winding streets and slate roofs spiralling below. Montmartre is the Parisian village of the past, the city of the Belle Epoque, and its squares and cafes are favourite places for lovers. Charming hotels and beautiful small restaurants add to the atmosphere of a uniquely romantic district of Paris.

The garden of the Museum of Romantic Life

A secret haven at the foot of Montmartre, the garden of the Museum of Romantic Life is a delight for lovers who are seeking a place of peace of tranquillity. If it’s cold or raining, there’s a charming refuge to be had under the protective glass of the beautiful cafe, with tea to warm the heart. If it’s sunny, there’s nothing better than to lounge comfortably in the country garden outside, which is open to everyone, not just visitors to the museum. In sunny months, the perfume of spring and summer flowers fills the air, and the garden is rarely crowded so it’s easy to find a beautiful, private place to sit. The enchanting location, the beautiful cafe — there are pastries too! — and the garden itself combines to make a magical place for lovers.

Square du Vert Galant

Not far away from the Place Dauphine is another magical square, located right on the tip of the Île de la Cité. Square du Vert Galant was built in tribute to the mistresses of Henri IV and could hardly be more romantic. This is a green space surrounded by the Seine, a great place to soak up the sun, with feet dangling above the water, watching barges and boats, such as those of the Bateaux Mouches, meander past. This square is packed on summer days, and yet it remains one of the favoured places for romantics who seek the delightful combination of sparkling water and the greenery of the trees. In winter, there’s more privacy for lovers, who may choose to bring along a warm jacket or perhaps a blanket to keep them protected from the breeze from the Seine.

Parc Montsouris

Parc Montsouris is a beautiful, large park, planted in the English tradition, a sanctuary in the 14th arrondissement where lovers can lose themselves. In summer the park bursts with flora and fauna. This is a dreamlike place with vast expanses of grass, ancient trees and a lake with caves and waterfalls. In all, this is one of the most relaxed parts of the French capital. The driveway into the park near the Boulevard Jourdan is a favourite for foreign students who whisper their love as they sit on the benches.

A walk on the banks of the Seine

The quays of the Seine are a must for couples in love. The Seine is the perfect companion for romantics to walk hand in hand, passing the Pont des Arts, the Louvre, the majestic Notre-Dame cathedral and the Île Saint-Louis. The banks of the Seine are the very heart of the City of Light and embody its many centuries of history, centuries when couples have used the Seine’s banks to declare their love. The two islands in the river, Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité, attract lovers seeking peace, quiet and elegant, small restaurants. The brides over the river have always attracted lovers who linger under them. By tradition, couples who kiss under the Pont Marie, the bridge which links the Île Saint-Louis with the Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville, should make a secret wish — guaranteed, of course, to come true. Finally, one of the simplest of all romantic walks is along the Seine to find the traditional booksellers with their antiquarian wares.

The Wall of Love

Not far away, hidden in Jehan Rictus Square near Abbesses Metro station, is the “Wall of I Love You”, built to celebrate love and peace. In our world today, walls and borders serve to divide people. This wall is different, designed to unite everyone in love, with “I Love You” inscribed 311 times on it in 250 languages. Truly a place of love.

Use XcelTrip to make wonderful memories by choosing one of these 6 romantic destinations to visit in Paris with your partner this Valentine’s Day.

Bachelor Party Destinations

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A boldly bodacious bachelor or bachelorette party is essential for a complete wedding experience, which means the pressure is on the best man or the maid of honour to deliver perfection. It is his/her sole responsibility to maximize the lascivious entertainment for this final unbridled blast.

As a result, the planning stage requires a keen attention to fine details. To maximize the raucous enjoyment, every nuanced ingredient must form a continued progression of exhilaration.

Luckily, every destination has its own welcoming perks. Without further ado, this guide presents an informative overview of 8 amazing bachelor and bachelorette destinations:

8. Honolulu, Hawaii

Give the groom or the bride an exotic escape with a luxuriously lascivious luau in the tropical island paradise of Hawaii. Take them surfing on the shiniest seas, then seek out some tangy barbecue. Experiment with colorful archipelago antics by taking a tour of the entire state. Try out a different kind of golf in the salty oceanic air.

Everywhere you go, the people are especially friendly. Enjoy fireside dancers on the coast as the sun sets to create a salacious ambiance. There is no rest in their life after their wedding, so give them one last chance to really relax.

7. Whistler, Canada

Arrive at a skier’s Shangri-la by going to Whistler. This hideaway utopia is packed with radical slopes to slyly navigate all day. The restaurant scene in town is downright iconic, which means you can have their pick of roasted specialties. For an explosive celebratory environment, the group can head over to Buffalo Bill’s.

The uproarious action at this club practically prescribes long-term intoxication. Bachelors are sure to have uncontainable enthusiasm in this receptively passionate city.

6. New Orleans, USA

New Orleans has always carved a reputation for raunchiness, which makes it ideal for a more visceral pleasing bachelor party. Traveling here during Mardi Gras will ensure that the groom gets flashed plenty of bosoms. Aside from guaranteed topless divas and dudes, the party culture is insanely alive in the Gulf Coast.

The city is notorious for out of control pre-wedding gatherings, and they rent out private balconies just for the unrestrained affair. Bourbon Street is where the mingling reaches full effect. With endless historic pubs to crash, the spree will not stop until the moment it is time to leave for the wedding.

5. Tokyo, Japan

Take the bachelor party into overdrive by sneaking the groom or the bride to Japan. Karaoke bars open their doors 24 hours a day to attract rambunctious tourists, and this instils a tame source of solid entertainment; however, it also provides a ruse for the real endeavour to take place. Using singing bars as a ruse, the group can attend Tokyo’s infamous strip clubs.

Beware, these performances will be surprisingly interactive. In truth, anything goes. The crowd will naturally encourage them to engage, so preemptively set limits. Prepare to enter a new realm of voyeurism.

4. Bangkok, Thailand

Flavorful festivity is always on the menu in Bangkok. Thai food’s exquisiteness is impossible to replicate, so the only way to enjoy it is by traveling straight to the source; at least that is what can be said to the soon-to-be wife. In reality, pole dancing is a predominant specialty in this city.

Parlors are also plentiful in this sweet spot, so be prepared to release all earthly qualms into a meditative calm. For guys and gals that are stressed about their upcoming nuptials, this is the perfect destination for anxiety relief.

3. Ibiza, Spain

To indulge in ceaseless dance beats, the Spanish coasts are the right site. Enter the single largest club in existence by dropping in Privilege. Crowds of beautiful people will gladly greet a bachelor party around every turn. Relentless partying is a plus in Ibiza, mainly since the beach gives a perfect rejuvenation atmosphere to recover from a hangover.

The vast countryside is breath-taking, and the groom can be set up on a rapid para-sailing adventure. There are endless natural wonders to behold in the scenic abode, and this includes the elegant European lasses.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Everything a bachelor could dream of is compacted into this one benevolent location. The finest museums in the world are accessible to appease intellectual whims, and exciting street performers show off dazzling stunts on all corners. The cafes are exclusively distinguished, but connoisseurs can lawfully purchase certain things for public consumption. It is a commonplace activity here.

Las Vegas, USA

For an authentic bachelor or bachelorette party, do it right by going to Vegas. No other place on Earth showcases the niche diversity that this prime nightlife centre possesses. Every aspect of this city’s presentation emanates sheer masculine magnificence. The divine dancers have truly honed their sultry rhythms to a level of grand art. Roaming away from the strip engenders an even more intimate encounter for an unsuspecting groom.

Nevada contains 24 legal places outside Sin City, which means a best man or the maid of honour can set up his/her friend’s last night without sanctimony to include the whole gamut of fun. It is wise to at least hit a casino once; this will give the group a stub to show the partner if they ask about the activities.

Use XcelTrip to plan your best friend’s bachelor or bachelorette party form the above list of 8 amazing bachelor or bachelorette destinations and make memories that last a lifetime.

Treks To Machu Picchu

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A visit to Machu Picchu is the highlight of most people’s trip to Peru. In fact, this ancient Inca Citadel attracts over a million visitors each year. Many visitors get there by way of the classic Inca Trail. Yet, there are n-number of treks that take you there, each unique in their own right.

Machu Picchu is only reachable by train or by foot. Around eighty-percent of visitors reach Machu Picchu by train, and 500 hikers start out on Inca Trail each day, Peru’s most prevalent trek. Technically, all these treks follow ‘Inca’ trails, but only one is known as the ‘classic route’. Securing a permit for the Inca Trail must be done 4–6 months in advance.

Luckily, if you’re looking to dodge the crowds and want to have an exceptional experience, there are a number of great choices for getting to Machu Picchu. We’ve put together a brief summary and description of the several options to help you decide which route is best for you.

Choquequirao Trek (7 days)

If you’re looking for the most adventurous trek on the list, this is it.The Choquequirao trek is as challenging as it is rewarding, with switchbacks taking you up and over steep, forest-covered mountains en route to Machu Picchu.

The trek starts with a steep, two-day climb to ruins of Choquequirao, perched high above the Apurimac river (40m higher than Machu Picchu). The Choquequirao ruins are larger than Machu Picchu, and still the process of being reclaimed from the jungle.

While you will enjoy some impressive views of snow-capped mountains and deep canyons along the way, the highlight is when you reach the archaeological site of Choquequirao, an Inca stronghold nearly as impressive as Machu Picchu. Few people undertake the journey to reach here, and trekking is the only way to arrive (although there’s been ongoing speculation to put a cable car in from across the canyon).

Of the trails listed here, though, Choquequirao is probably the most challenging, and should only be attempted by those with a high degree of fitness.

Classic Inca Trail (4–5 days)

One of the world’s most famous treks, the Inca trail follows one of the ancient paths of the Inca’s as it winds its way up toward the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. The total distance is around 38 km., and we recommend doing this trek in 5 days (as opposed to 4) which allows you the time to really enjoy it, to admire the views, and to explore the ruins along the way. This will also allow you to trek a half-day ahead of or behind the majority of trekkers, so you have the camps and trails to yourself.

The main consideration for this trek is that you must purchase a permit in advance, which often sell out quickly (permits go on sale every January). Five hundred people are allowed to start the trek each day, as well as 250 people (as of recently) are issued a single-day permit to join in on the last day of the trek. Because of the large number of people, camping and guide/porter restrictions are highly regulated, where you camp in designated camp sites each night.

Needless to say, this trek is popular for a reason. Not only does it pass through great ruins along the way, you’ll enjoy amazing views of rivers and snow-capped mountains, before finally passing through the famous Sun Gate into Machu Picchu at sunset on your last day.

Salkantay Trek (5 days)

The most popular alternative to reach Machu Picchu, the Salkantay trek is similar in duration and difficulty to the Inca Trail. What it lacks in ancient archeological sites along the way, it makes up for it in natural abundance. You’ll pass through a multitude of microclimates on your way up to 4660m, then descend into the Peruvian cloud forest — all in few days. Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, high lagoons and idyllic pastures and high jungle makes this a great trek for people that love nature.

The trek is traditionally done in either 4 or 5 days, with the final night spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. The trek is considered to be moderate to challenging in difficulty, with the difficulty lying in some long days of hiking, as well as the altitude of the highest mountain pass that you will cross (4660 m. / 15,200 ft.).

While previously the trek was done with camping on all but the final night, there is now another opportunity for those travelers who don’t feel the need for roughing it. In the Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge Trek, you’ll travel through the same gorgeous countryside, with a side visit to the Llactapata Pass for the first glimpse from afar of Machu Picchu, something very few people get the chance to see. Your evenings will be spent in luxurious lodges built to blend in with their surroundings. If you prefer, the trail can also be done on horseback.

Lares Trek (3 days)

If you’re interested in a cultural experience, the Lares Trek is a great choice. You still get to cross over a high-altitude mountain pass (4640m), yet you’ll pass through several small villages along the way still following a traditional way of life: growing their own crops and herding llamas and alpacas, much the way they have done for centuries.

The trek itself takes three days, starting off in Lares (don’t miss the hot springs!) and taking you away from the crowds of the Sacred Valley into the Andes to the north of the Urubamba. At the end of your trek, on the third day, you’ll catch a train to Machu Picchu, overnighting at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

While not to be taken lightly, the Lares Trek is the easiest trek relative to the other treks that take you to Machu Picchu. It’s the best trek for fairly fit hikers who want an active holiday but don’t want to push themselves too hard.

For those who enjoy comfort: Mountain Lodges of Peru (who also run the Salkantay Lodge-to-Lodge trek) have developed a 5 or 7 day Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu, staying in their luxury lodges along the way (a third lodge is currently being built for the final day).

Llactapata Trek (2 days)

This is another great option if you’re short on time. Following the same route to Santa Teresa as mentioned above, you spend the night in Santa Teresa enjoying the hot springs before taking off early the next morning for a one-day trek along the Llactapata trail.

The route climbs up switchbacks over a ridgeline before descending through the Llactapata ruins, high above the Urubamba valley with views of Machu Picchu from afar. From here, you’ll descend down to Hydroelectrica and either catch a train or hike the rest of the way to Aguas Calientes.

Back Door to Machu Picchu (1 day)

For those who have little time or inclination to tackle a full-on trek to Machu Picchu, here’s a great alternative. You can take a bus to Santa Maria and, from there, a shared car to Santa Teresa and the Hydroelectric train station. From here, it’s about a 2.5-hour walk to Aguas Calientes. This hike is relatively easy and flat, taking you through the high jungle where you will likely spot orchids along the way, as well as other flowers, bananas, coffee plants, and a multitude of birds.

This short trail, combined with all the walking in Machu Picchu itself, is often enough for people who arrive in Peru with more need of a break than an adventure. In addition, if you can take more of a time-out, Santa Teresa has some relaxing hot springs that you can enjoy.

Use XcelTrip to Peru to take a trek to Machu Picchu and make memories that last a lifetime.

How To Travel Across Europe On A Budget-XcelTrip

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Travelling aroundEurope can be fairly expensive. Airline tickets, high-speed trains, overnight trains, ferries — they can all eat into all of the travellers limited travel budget. A few recent trends that have helped travellers get around Europe cheaper: weaker currency exchange rates, the rise of the sharing economy, new bus options, and lots of new budget airlines. There are now tons of cheap ways to get around Europe because of all these changes.

This article will look at how to travel across Europe on a budget, just to make sure that all travellers are informed on what they can do to stay within the set budget:

Megabus

Megabus is a cheap way to get around the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales) as well as to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. Tickets can cost as little as 1 GBP if you book at least a month in advance on popular routes. However, even if you don’t scoop up these amazingly cheap deals, you can still travel for a more reasonable price than on the national bus system, as fares rarely top 20 GBP.

Busabout

Busabout is a hop-on/hop-off bus service similar to the Oz or Kiwi Experience in Australia and New Zealand, respectively. A lot of backpackers use this method of travel to get around as well as meet other travellers. You can get on and off whenever you want along one of their set routes. You can buy tickets that lets you travel their whole network with a set number of stops, for example, a nine-day flex pass, which gives you nine stops from your starting city. The pass also comes with a guide and sometimes includes group activities. A two-week pass is $299 USD.

FlixBus

Over the last few years, a new company has entered the market and totally changed the bus system in Europe! German-based FlixBus has routes in 20 European countries and thousands of cities, with prices starting as low as 5 euros. Their buses include Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, up to three three free bags, and comfy seats. It’s essentially Megabus, but less sucky. It’s the best and cheapest way to get around the whole of continental Europe. FlixBus quickly became my favorite non-train way to get across Europe more cheaply.

Budget Airline

By far one of the cheapest ways to travel long-distance in Europe is by budget airline. These airlines are hugely prolific on the continent, and this competition has led to incredibly cheap fares, often as cheap as 1 euro. Here are some of the best airlines to take to travel long-distance:

It’s important to remember that these budget airlines make most of their money through fees, and the second you mess up, they whack you with a fee. They are very strict about baggage limits or forgetting to print out your boarding pass. Be sure to follow their rules to the letter. Sometimes these budget airlines cost more money because of all their fees, so if you’re traveling with a lot of bags, it may be cheaper to fly with one of the larger airlines.

Eurail Pass

Traveling by train allows you the traveller to sit in a bigger seat, relax with a book, and watch the stunning landscape go by. It’s more comfortable than a bus and much less stressful than air travel. The European rail system is one of the best and most extensive in the world. If you’re going to travel by train, it’s hard to beat them on price and convenience for short city-to-city travel. For longer journeys (overnight journeys, between countries, or rides that require a high-speed line, like Paris to Bordeaux or Berlin to Munich), trains tend to be very expensive.

If you plan to travel around Europe in a grand tour or if you are going to be traveling across vast distances and don’t want to fly, getting a rail pass is your best money-saving travel option. Your cost per trip will be a lot lower than if you were to buy these tickets separately.

BlaBlaCar

The rise of the sharing economy has allowed people to hop a ride with locals going their way, and BlaBlaCar is the reigning king of this service. It’s hugely popular and widespread in Europe, and I’ve used this service many times. It lets you rideshare with people who have extra space in their car. You find a ride, they agree to take you, and off you go. You can find rides for as little as 5 euros.

This is the BEST paid way to get around Europe. You get to meet the locals, have a friendly conversation, save tons of money over bus and train travel, and get off the highways and more into the countryside.

Hitchhiking

The best way to travel Europe cheaply is to not pay for it and hitchhike. Hitching is quite common in Europe (and a lot safer than you think), and I’ve met a number of travellers who have done it and have been fine. I myself travelled this way in Bulgaria. But it’s important to use your head when hitchhiking. Always trust your instinct, and use common sense. If the situation feels unsafe, bail out as quick as you can.

Mix and Match Your Transportation

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to get around Europe on a budget. But the best way is to MIX AND MATCH YOUR TRANSPORTATION. The key to traveling around Europe on the cheap is to know when to use each one of the listed transportation methods. For short trips, I like trains and BlaBlaCar. For medium-length trips (half a day), I’ll take a bus, BlaBlaBla car, or train. For long distances, I fly or take a high-speed train or an overnight bus.

Too many travellers think it’s an all or nothing thing. Like one way is always better than the other. That’s not true. There’s no one way to travel Europe. There are a ton — and you need to know when to use which method. What’s more valuable? Time or money?

If you have more time, take the slower cheaper routes (except when flying is cheaper). If you have more money and a shorter trip, fly and take the train. In any given trip, I will take at least four of the above methods on how to get around Europe! It’s a mix and match method. One way isn’t good 100% of the time.

The first step to travel to Europe if you stay anywhere around the world is to grab a flight that would be cheap, so head on over XcelTrip use your cryptocurrency to fly to your preferred city and make memories that lasts a lifetime.

XcelTrip- 6 Beautiful Places To Visit In Bordeaux

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With its urban elegance and provincial charm, Bordeaux is an appealing tourist destination in a beautiful region of Southwest France. Bordeaux is called the “Port of the Moon” because of its romantic location on a crescent-shaped bend of the Garonne River. In this splendid setting that allowed trade to flourish, the city has a rich cultural heritage dating back to antiquity. UNESCO declared Bordeaux a World Heritage Site in 1998 thanks to the city’s wealth of architectural treasures. More than 350 buildings are classified as historical monuments.

Here is a list of 6 beautiful places to visit in Bordeaux:

Cathédrale Saint-André

A place of historical importance in the heart of Bordeaux, the Cathedral of Saint Andrew dates back to the 12th century. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cathedral was part of the Route of Saint James pilgrimage trail. Pilgrims traveled through Bordeaux from the Médoc, Tours, and the British Isles on their way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Comparable to Notre-Dame in Paris in its grandeur, the Cathedral of Saint Andrew has an impressive facade with sculptures of the Last Supper, the Ascension, and Christ in Majesty. Interestingly, the western front side of the cathedral is completely unadorned, since it was originally too close to the old town walls. However, now opposite the cathedral stands the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), a marvelous palace built in the 1770s. Designed in the Neoclassical style typical of Bordeaux, the Hôtel de Ville is an architectural treasure with an impressive colonnaded facade.

Musée des Beaux-Arts

Set in the pleasant Jardin de la Mairie public park, the Museum of Beaux-Arts occupies part of the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall). The museum offers a wonderful insight into European art history, with a collection of art spanning the 15th to the 20th centuries. The permanent collection includes masterpieces by Titian, Veronese, Rubens, Delacroix, Renoir, and Rodin, among others. Paintings are organized thematically, grouped by era and country, such as the Renaissance, 17th-century Dutch paintings, and 17th to 18th-century French paintings. The adjoining Galerie des Beaux-Arts features temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.

Place de la Bourse

Lining the quays of Bordeaux for a half mile are palatial classical buildings from the 18th century. The most magnificent examples are found at the Place de la Bourse, which epitomizes the elegance of 18th-century design. In the center of the square is the Fountain of the Three Graces, surrounded by two beautiful pavilion-like buildings: the Palais de la Bourse (formerly the Stock Exchange) and the Musée National des Douanes (Customs Museum), the only museum of its kind in France. These graceful quayside monuments overlook the banks of the Garonne River. Take a scenic walk alongside the Garonne River to admire the glorious architecture of the Place de la Bourse and the shimmering reflections of the buildings in the river.

Basilique Saint-Michel

Exemplifying an extravagant “Rayonnant Gothic” style, this basilica, dedicated to the Archangel, is another important church on the Route of Santiago pilgrimage trail. Along with the Cathedral of Saint Andrew and the Basilica of Saint Seurin, the Basilica of Saint Michael is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The basilica took 200 years to build, from the 14th to 16th centuries. The church presents a pleasing unity of architectural style, described as “Rayonnant Gothic” (the 13th-century French style of ornate Gothic architecture). From the top of the freestanding belfry, you can take in stunning panoramic views of the city. After visiting the basilica, enjoy a stroll around the Quartier Saint-Michel that surrounds the basilica. This quarter to the south of the Pont de Pierre is the most colorful and atmospheric neighborhood of Bordeaux.

Palais Gallien

The only remaining vestige of the Roman era in Bordeaux, the Palais Gallien was built in the late 2nd century and was located just outside the town of “Burdigala.” This immense amphitheater could accommodate 15,000 spectators on wooden benches. Visiting this exceptional site allows you to envision life during Roman times. The amphitheater offered typical brutal Roman entertainment such as gladiator combats.

Pont de Pierre

One of the iconic sights in Bordeaux, the Pont de Pierre (Stone Bridge) blends perfectly with the city’s elegant riverfront buildings. Imagined in 1817 by engineer Claude Descamps, the Pont de Pierre was completed in 1821 after years of construction work. The result is a beautiful feat of engineering. The bridge spans the Garonne River with 17 graceful arches supported by foundation piles that are set into the riverbed and well designed to withstand strong currents. In the history of Bordeaux, this was the first bridge to cross the Garonne River.

Plan your vacation to tour these 6 beautiful places to visit in Bordeaux, with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

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XcelTrip-6 Fascinating Places To Visit In Santa Fe

Capital of the province by the same name, the seldom explored Argentine city of Santa Fe surprises travellers with its eclectic array of impressive attractions. From intriguing downtown museums to stunning colonial buildings and pristine natural waterways, here is a list of 6 fascinating places to visit in Santa Fe:

Santa Fe La Vieja Archaeological Park

History buffs will enjoy this important archeological site which was home to the original city of Santa Fe until it relocated some 50 kilometers (30 miles) south in the 1660s. Original constructions such as churches, plazas, city hall, and a myriad of grandiose residences are on display to give visitors an insight into how folks lived during the early days of Spanish colonization.

Rosa Galisteo de Rodriguez Museum

Art enthusiasts should pay a visit to the Rosa Galisteo de Rodriguez Museum, a fine arts museum endearingly named after the mother of its founder back in 1918. Set in a charming edifice overlooking a local park, the museum holds some 2,500 works of exquisite contemporary Argentine art.

Juan de Garay Park

As the city’s premier recreational park, Juan de Garay sees a flurry of activity on weekends as locals come to relax among lagoons and flower gardens or get involved in a friendly game of football. During the summer it gets particularly exciting as festivals, art exhibits, and events are held in the evenings.

Visit the Suspension Bridge and Riverfront

An obligatory stop in Santa Fe, be sure to stroll the waterfront’s costanera to see town’s iconic suspension bridge, Puente Colgante, and great views of the coast.

At night, the bridge is illuminated with colored lights, but day or evening this is one of the most beautiful places in town. Lots of locals hang out in the recently renovated areas and rollerblade, skateboard, cycle, or walk their dogs along the promenade. On Sundays, artisans and antique dealers ply their wares and food vendors set up shop for the crowds. Have a drink nearby with views of the palm tree-lined river or take a walk to see the lighthouse.

Cruise the Paraná River

Book a boat trip to cruise the Paraná River from the port in Santa Fe.

You can hop onboard a catamaran with the Costa Litoral company and travel through the islands or take a trip to the nearby city of Paraná. You’ll hear interesting information about the river from a guide and get to see the town’s iconic suspension bridge from a new angle. Sunset cruises are a great option for a glimpse of the city from the water in the evenings and photographs of the light shimmering off the riverfront. The boat has a bar and canteen serving up hot and cold food during your journey.

Follow the list of 6 fascinating places to visit in Santa Fe, with XcelTripto make memories that last a lifetime.

XcelTrip-8 Breath-taking Places To Visit In The Canary Islands

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Although part of Spain, the Canary Islands are much closer to Africa than they are to Europe. Fuerteventura is only 160 kilometers from the northwest coast of Morocco, close enough for its beaches to be made of blowing Sahara sand. Spanish is the local language, but tourists may be surprised to find a distinctly Canarian character and culture that is quite different from mainland Spain. In other words, don’t expect bullfights or flamenco. Expect to find plenty of other tourists, especially on the islands of Tenerife and Gran

Canaria, most of whom have come for the fabled beaches. There’s no wrong season to visit the islands, as their placement where the tropical climatic zone joins the sub-tropical zone gives them an almost ideal climate of perpetual springtime, with average temperatures varying only 14 degrees throughout the year. Here is a list of 8 breath-taking places to visit in the Canary Islands:

Teide National Park, Tenerife

The third highest volcano in the world at 3,718 meters in altitude, Teide towers above the small island of Tenerife, the best known of the Canary Islands. Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes the entire mountain, and a trip inside the immense crater is a highlight of a trip to the Canary Islands. Inside the crater’s rim is a caldera — the crater floor — 19 kilometers in diameter, and a drive across this barren moonscape is like driving into the center of the earth. This crater is actually what’s left of a much larger mountain that blew its top about three million years ago, collapsing into itself. In places, it left walls that rise 457 meters above the crater floor.

Beaches of Gran Canaria

The south coast of Gran Canaria is an almost constant succession of beautiful golden sand beaches. Between Playa de San Agustin on the west and Puerto de Mogán to the east, sunseekers will find no less than six major beach resorts. The largest is Maspalomas, perhaps the island’s most popular beach, painted with bright umbrellas and backed by a promenade and a line of restaurants, cafes, shops, and amusements. It’s one of the island’s liveliest beach scenes at any time of day or night. At one end is a protected reserve of huge sand dunes stretching in layers to the sea. Mountains of wind-rifled sand undulate above beaches, where dunes as high as 12 meters are constantly carved and shifted by sea and wind. You can wander for hours on foot, marveling at their desolate beauty, but it’s more exotic to climb on a dromedary for a lurching ride through this spectacular dunescape.

Works of Cesar Manrique, Lanzarote

The artist Cesar Manrique is remembered not only for his works of art and architecture but for the inspiration and dedication that saved the character of his native island of Lanzarote. After a successful art career in New York and on the continent, he returned to Lanzarote in 1968, where he began a campaign to save Lanzarote from the unbridled tourist development that had ruined so many other holiday destinations. He set the island on a new environmentally and culturally sustainable path by designing and building a series of attractions that used and celebrated the nature of the island — its volcanic landscapes, ragged lava flows, and soaring cliffs.

The Beaches of Fuerteventura

Miles of beaches on the island of Fuerteventura are almost empty, and even most of those with well-developed tourist infrastructures are uncrowded. The northeastern beaches are often quite windy, and the surf on its northern beaches is quite heavy — to the delight of surfers, who find some of Europe’s finest waves here. Corralejo, a fishing port on the north coast, is a surfing center, with rentals, surf schools, and a strong surfer and watersports culture. Playa el Pozo, which has moderate waves and safe swimming waters, has a number of kiosks renting water sports equipment, beach chairs, and sun umbrellas, and there are several other choices along Corralejo’s nearly 16 kilometers of sandy shore.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The capital of Tenerife is a lively and attractive city, marked by some outstanding architectural attractions. Foremost of these is the magnificent Auditorio de Tenerife, an opera house and concert hall overlooking the sea, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The concert hall hosts world class performers, conductors, and orchestras. Santa Cruz has other cultural highlights, including the excellent collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, where you’ll find works by Spanish, Flemish, and Canarian painters. At the fascinating Museum of Nature and Man, you can learn more about Tenerife’s native people, before the arrival of European settlers, and about the volcanic history of the island. Close to the museum, the lively Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa is a good place to find local crafts. Santa Cruz is where you’ll find the best shopping in Tenerife, and the Canaries’ most famous event, the annual carnival, marked by lavish parades, shows, and extravagant costumes.

Loro Park, Tenerife

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the Canary Islands is this wildlife park just outside of Puerto de la Cruz. Combining high standards of conservation with good entertainment, the park has one of the world’s largest collections of parrots, a large dolphinarium, and an immense aquarium with an underwater tunnel where you can walk as sharks and other sea creatures swim overhead. A bat cave; a gorilla jungle; a huge penguin habitat; and various exotic animals, including tigers and crocodiles, fill the large park.

Cueva de los Verdes

One of the most popular things to do on Lanzarote is to explore the seven-kilometer-long volcanic tube that extends from La Coruna mountain to the sea. These tubes were formed when the surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened while the molten river of lava still flowed beneath it. When the subterranean lava emptied into the ocean, it left the hollow tube deep underground. The two kilometers inside of the cave you can tour is in its original state — the only things that have been added are lights and walkways for safety. You enter the caves through a jameo — a hole created by the collapse of a thin place in the roof of the lava tube. Some of the larger chambers are as high as nine to 12 meters. The stone of the walls is red, orange, and black, formed by compounds such as iron oxide and calcium carbonate in the stone.

Santa Cruz de la Palma

This pleasant seaside townhas the most unspoiled seafront of any in the Canaries and still reflects the favored position it held in the 1500s, when it was one of only three Spanish ports allowed to trade with the New World. Stroll along the cobbled Calle O’Daley to see the handsome homes of wealthy merchants and appreciate the prosperity this town enjoyed in the 17th and 18th centuries. The 16th-century Iglesia del Salvador has a beautiful mudejar ceiling and a painted altarpiece. The Ayuntamiento (town hall) was once the cardinal’s palace, built in 1569, and has a magnificent carved ceiling and Renaissance arcade. Every five years, the island celebrates its patron saint, the Virgin of Las Nieves, with Quinquennial Fiestas, following the same traditions the townspeople have enjoyed since 1680.

Plan your vacation to these 8 breath-taking places to visit in Canary Islands with XcelTripand make memories that last a lifetime.

XcelTrip-8 Amazing Places To Visit In Argentina

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Argentina is one of the biggest countries in South America. It has lots of places to visit which can be natural or man-made. It is a dynamic country with glaciers, vineyards, skyscrapers and many more. Argentina is also one of the top destinations for tourists.

The scenery is Argentina is absolutely stunning and majestic. It hosts some of the highest waterfalls and mountains in all of America.

Here are 8 amazing places to visit in Argentina, to add to your list.

Cordoba sierras

If high mountains with plentiful streams flowing downhill and beautiful flowers is what any traveller considers to be a perfect vacation location then Cordoba Sierras. It is a beautiful and peaceful location near the Cordoba province is must visit in the country as this has unique scenery that can be only found here. It is a great option in places to visit in Argentina.

Mar del Plata Beaches

It is one of the popular Argentina beaches. It is a great place to have a relaxing holiday. Mar del Plata Beaches is one of the best beaches in Argentina and is a must visit. Though the beaches can get crowded in the summer months but otherwise have a very relaxed atmosphere. This is one of the must-visit places in Argentina.

Aconcagua

Aconcagua is the tallest summit in Argentina and the seventh in the world. This is also a paradise for adventure seekers who are not experts. The trek to the summit is not very difficult as it does not require equipment and sticks although it might be very lengthy. Once travellers have reached on they get to see the breath-taking view from up there and glaciers that lay around. It is surely one of the top places to visit in Argentina.

Buenos Aires

It is one of the most bustling cities in Buenos Aires. It is the place for October Olympics in 2019 and it has brought the city on the forefront. It is a great place to have great street food and get into the festive mood. It is a great choice for people who love roaming around and having great food. There are a lot of places to visit in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Puerto Iguazu

One of the reasons to visit Argentina in Puerto Iguazú in theIguacu province. This national park has almost 250 waterfalls altogether. These waterfalls are one of the highest waterfalls in the world and are a must visit in Argentina. It is a must in the list of Argentina sightseeing. Argentina has an abundance of nature and travellers should take up the chance to enjoy it.

Mendoza city

It is one of theprettiest city in Argentina. It is also the wine capital of Argentina. This city is an exceptionally beautiful city. Head to the Mandoza City to view the picture-perfect city with a backdrop of the magnificent Andes with snow-capped and peaks. Every corner of this city can in Instagrammed which makes it the top places the visit to Argentina.

Monte Fitz Roy

This place hosts one of the most iconic mountain peaks of the Andes range. This is a granite mountain surrounded by frozen lakes and glaciers. It is located in southern Patagonia. This is also one of the most loved climbs by the extreme mountaineers. This view is beautiful, rough yet unfathomable at the same time.

Ushuaia

Ushuaia is an epic location and one of the most unique locations in the world as it is the southernmost city in the world. This might make travellers feel like Columbus as it almost feels like the edge of the world. It is surely a must visit and one of the best places to visit in Argentina. This is also the city from where cruises leave for Antarctica.

Use XcelTrip to plan your vacation to all of these 8 amazing places to visit in Argentina and make memories that lasts a lifetime.

XcelTrip-5 Adventure Sports To Try In Brazil

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Brazil is a land of many attractions and activities, ranging from historical monuments and bustling city centres to dense jungles and deserted beaches.

However, Brazil is also a fabulous destination for adrenaline junkies seeking an escape filled with exciting adventure sports. It may be a boys’ getaway, honeymoon or corporate teambuilding initiative; adventure sports are always popular. Here are 5 adventure sports to try in Brazil:

Canopy Tours or Zip Lining

These tours allow visitors to explore the forests from the perspective of the towering trees, sliding from one to the other while securely seated in a harness. This has little negative effect on the environment, as everything is secured via tension. This means that trees are not drilled or cut to support the visitors, and no tourists are trampling on delicate vegetation on the ground. Therefore, this is the ideal adrenalin sport for eco-tourists. Various tours are offered, and Rio de Janeiro is popular for this particular activity.

Horse Riding Safaris

The Pantanal is ideal for horse riding safaris, which take visitors through some of the beautiful wonders of Brazil on the back of an equally magnificent animal. These safaris can be done in groups and allow participants to get up close and personal to nature, while covering a greater distance than is possible by hiking. In addition to The Pantanal, other popular places for horse riding safaris include the canyons and waterfalls of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Darwin’s Rainforest Trail from Rio de Janeiro and the Bahia beaches.

Surfing

While surfing can be a laid-back sport, it can certainly induce a fair amount of adrenalin when braving massive swells. Brazil’s coastline promises a variety of beaches, each of which is suited to a different calibre and expertise of surfer. Fernando de Noronha Island may be a small land mass, but it boasts enormous swells, promising surfers plenty of thrills. The more popular, better known beaches can become very full, making it difficult for surfers to be able to move freely. Therefore, the quieter, rougher beaches are usually reserved for these dedicated sportsmen and women.

Cascading Canyoning

This involves climbing down canyons and through waterfalls using ropes and safety gear. This certainly gets the heart pounding, and guarantees spectacular views and never-to-be-forgotten memories. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Brazil without impacting negatively on the environment.

Rappelling

This sport is a climbing technique that involves lowering yourself from a cliff or bridge using ropes and safety gear (like abseiling). The beach of Barra de Guaratiba is a popular rappelling site, measuring 50 metres in height. Tours are then perfectly rounded off by a refreshing swim in the ocean.

Use XcelTrip to plan your trip to Brazil to try any of the above 5 Adventure sports and make memories that lasts a lifetime.

XcelTrip- 5 Romantic Places To Visit in Brazil

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With a stunning natural landscape, year-round tropical sunshine, vibrant musical scene and seemingly endless beaches, Rio de Janeiro is one of the world’s great romantic cities.

Whether you’re flying do want to Rio for Valentine’s Day; looking for a romantic getaway, or even heading to Rio in the hope of romancing one of the famously good-looking locals, rest assured that Rio offers no end of opportunity to create truly memorable romantic moments.

Couples looking for a romantic vibe in Rio shouldn’t shy away from the tourist trail in Rio — taking the cable car ride up Sugar Loaf mountain or the funicular railway up to see the Christ Statue atop Corcovado is a romantic treat that the inevitable crowds won’t spoil. The beaches, too, bustle with people year-round, but that won’t make sipping a caipirinha on the sands any less special. Be sure to catch the spectacular sunset at Arpoador — the point where Ipanema meets Copacabana, and where a rock jutting out into the ocean is the ideal place to see the sun dip over city and the ocean. Here are our top 5 romantic places to visit in Rio de Janeiro:

Costa Verde

Rio de Janeiro´s city beaches are famous the world over, and with good reason. But if you´ve been partying hard during your Rio vacation and are feeling the need for a little rest and relaxation in more tranquil surrounds, the Costa Verde beckons. This paradisiacal stretch of coastline takes in innumerous beaches and more islands than one could count — the Costa Verde town of Ilha Grande is in itself surrounded by 365 islands. The largest of these is the vast nature reserve of Ilha Grande, whose history as a prison for dangerous criminals and, before that, a leper colony, have not stopped visitors from flocking here in the search for isolated beaches surrounded by wild palms and chattering monkeys, as opposed to the high rise hotels of Copacabana. Of the beaches on Ilha Grande, Lopes Mendes is the most dramatically beautiful with its white sands and lapping waves.

Parqua Lage

This beautiful park, located right next door to Rio de Janeiro’s famous Botanical Gardens, is largely overlooked by tourists. More fool them, as the park is home to one of the most spectacular buildings in the city, framed by the figure of Christ the Redeemer atop his mountain perch. This building is currently home to an art school, and there are regular exhibitions, and is also the location for a coffee shop and restaurant that make great options for a leisurely brunch. The park may be recognisable to hip hop fans — it appears in the video for — Beautiful — , by Snoop Dogg and Pharell.

Sugar Loaf

One of the most famous mountain peaks in the world, Sugar Loaf scarcely needs an introduction. But while you may be familiar with the tourist board images of the cable car making its dizzying ascent up to the top of the mountain, nothing can prepare you for the spectacular views and the true splendour of Rio’s cityscape as it unfurls below. The cable car makes two stops — calling first at Morro da Urca, Sugar Loaf’s smaller sister mountain, before continuing its journey to the lofty vantage point. SugarLoaf just right out of the Atlantic Ocean, and the sweeping vistas of white sand beaches, jungle-clad mountains and crashing waves will take your breath away.

Spa Copacabana Palace

For a truly luxurious experience in Rio, it’s hard to beat the spa at Copacabana Palace. This classic hotel added a five-star spa and beauty salon in 2007, and the treatments here are all about making those well-heeled guests feel like a million dollars. There are a number of treatments for couples, as well as pre-wedding treatments, making this one of the top spots in Rio for a romantic spa treatment. You don’t need to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy a beauty treatment, massage or sauna, but you will need to book in advance, and it goes without saying that treatments at this luxury hotel spa don’t come cheap. If you want to be pampered in style though, this is the place to come.

Arpoador

Located between the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, Arpoador is not a beach whose name trips off the tongue as easily as those of its more famous neighbours, but this curve of sand is well worth your beach time. Really an extension of Ipanema beach, Arpoador is most notable for the giant rock that juts out from the shore into the crashing waves. This rock is lined with walking trails, with some fantastic views over Rio de Janeiro´s stunning coastline. It´s a favourite spot with romantic couples, too, and the sunset views from here are guaranteed to set even the hardest heart a-flutter.

Use XcelTrip to make your Valentine’s Day a memorable one by picking any of these 5 romantic places to visit in Brazil.

XcelTrip- Best beaches to visit around the world

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Whether you’re seeking a sandy stretch that feels like it’s your alone, hidden bays on tropical islands or buzzing party spots, we have all the top spots on this year’s list of the 12 most beautiful beaches around the world:

Ngapali Beach — Ngapali, Myanmar

Myanmar has some incredible beaches that are unspoilt, but Ngapali (pronounced ‘Napoly’) on the Bay of Bengal coast is a real highlight. Palm trees line the long, white stretch of sand that’s surrounded by fishing villages.

Glass Beach — California, USA

This is no ordinary beach — Glass Beach gets its name from the smooth colourful glass pieces that make up its shore. Once a local dumping site, the glass has become pretty pebbles over the years and the beach is now a protected spot.

Amanohashidate -Kyoto, Japan

While beaches aren’t the first thing that spring to mind when you think of Japan, this beautiful pine-covered sandbar is a little jewel in northern Kyoto. Its name roughly translates to “bridge in heaven”.

Champagne Beach — Vanuatu

One of the world’s most picturesque beaches, this spot has clear blue waters and sparkling sand. At Champagne Beach you will also find fresh fruit stalls, freshly prepared crab and lobster and cute beachside shacks.

Belle Mare — Mauritius

If powder-white sand and coral reefs are your thing, then Belle Mare beach is heaven. It’s on the south coast of the island and is surrounded by unspoilt nature, with only a few hotels and luxury villas. The coral reef offshore creates a lagoon, so the water is perfect for swimming.

Agiba Beach — Marsa Matrouh, Egypt

Agiba Beach is one of the most beautiful virgin beaches in the world; roughly 40 metres long, the clean sand and waters of the beach are tucked between cliffs. Climb up one of the cliffs for an astonishing view of the Mediterranean, or simply splash straight into the water.

Praia do Camilo — Lagos, Portugal

Make your way down the 200 wooden steps which wind along the orange cliffs to reach this golden, sandy beach. You’ll see the Ponta da Piedade nearby, a landmark rock formation with grottoes and rock arches.

Palombaggia Beach — Porto-Vecchio, Corsica

This is the most famous beach on the island, and we can see why. The beach at Palombaggia is one of Corsica’s finest, with fine white sand. It faces gorgeous blue seas, and is lined with beautiful pine trees, with the Cerbicales islands in the distance.

Sunset Beach — Oahu, Hawaii

Sunset Beach is known as one of the longest stretches of rideable surf in the world, with a wide, sandy stretch to relax on. In the winter months, you can watch big-wave surfing with swells up to 30 feet tall, along with the world’s premier surfing competitions.

Matira Beach -Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Matira Beach is actually the only public beach on the main island, and it just so happens to be the most beautiful one. With white sands and gorgeous lagoon waters, it’s pure paradise.

It’s postcard-perfect — especially when the sun starts to go down as you watch from a waterfront bar.

Whitehaven Beach — Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Whitehaven Beach stretches over 7 km and boasts brilliant white silica sand that is among the purest in the world. It’s right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, and is one of the world’s most unspoiled and beautiful beaches. Because of the silica, the sand doesn’t retain heat, so it’s a fantastic place to walk barefoot, even on a hot day.

Zlatni rat (Golden Horn Beach) — Brac, Croatia

The Golden Horn is the most spectacular of all Croatia’s beaches. It’s notjustits shape that makes it so beautiful and unique. The pebble beach is surrounded by crystal clear sea, that goes from turquoise blue to dark blue in just 10–20 meters.

Use XcelTrip to visit any or all of these 12 most beautiful beaches around the world and make memories that last a lifetime.

5 Amazing College Towns To Visit In 2020

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The word “college” itself comprises community colleges, two-year schools, public and private four-year universities, and more — under those terms, LA could be a college town even though it encompasses more than 200 schools! So when looking at the best college towns in the U.S., we looked for two main criteria — first, a place that’s small enough to have a recognizable sense of community and identity, tied to but not limited to the campus (or campuses); and second, one that’s home to a variety of things to see and do there both on and beyond the campus. You’ll find plenty of the latter in our round-up — towns with outdoor adventure, great museums, diverse culinary scenes, football fandom, and more. Here are 5 amazing college towns to visit in 2020:

Ithaca, New York

Ithaca is a funky town that takes its local culture seriously. A couple of examples: its long-time fight against a proposed nearby highway to maintain the community culture, and its own currency, the Ithaca Hour, created with the purpose of supporting local businesses. Despite being home to Cornell University, Ithaca College, and a community college, all of which double the town’s population during the school year, Ithaca manages to hold on to its unique personality that locals love and keeps alums coming back to visit. Ithaca is also surrounded by several hiking trails that lead to gorges (hence the punny motto “Ithaca is Gorges”); Buttermilk Falls and Six Mile Creek are favorites. Or take a day trip to nearby Watkins Glen State Park or Robert H. Treman State Park to find some beautiful waterfall hikes.

Berkeley, California

Berkeley may be just across theOakland Bay Bridge from San Francisco, but this progressive city is a world unto itself, partially due to its legendarily left-learning university. In the 1960s, Berkeley gained worldwide recognition as the home of the student-led Free Speech Movement. Today it remains a symbol of counterculture that’s most apparent in the independent book and music stores and second-hand clothing shops along Telegraph Avenue, as well as its enticing Gourmet Ghetto (known as the birthplace of “California Cuisine”), where landmark restaurant Chez Panisse still thrives as the epicenter of farm-to-table fare.

St. Augustine, Florida

Whether you are moving your child in at Flagler College for the new school year or just visiting the nation’s oldest European settlement, you’ll find nonstop entertainment in St. Augustine. Not surprisingly, the city overflows with historical attractions including the Oldest Wooden SchoolHouse, Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, and the Castillo de San Marcos. You can even tour Flagler College, which was built as the Hotel Ponce de Leon in 1888 and features Tiffany windows and gorgeous murals. When you’re ready to satisfy your appetite, head to Columbia Restaurant for its famous “1905” Salad tossed tableside. For a sweet treat, select a gourmet popsicle (try the Elvis with peanut butter, banana and honey) from The Hyppo. At day’s end, head to your room at the Jaybird’s Inn just minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Chapel Hill, not to be confused with the neighboring cities of Raleigh and Durham (or collegiate rivals, depending on who you speak to), is widely known as home to the campus of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and its Tar Heels basketball team. Sports aside, it’s home to plenty of cultural activities, bars, and restaurants.

Check into The Franklin, a happening hotel situated on Franklin Street, directly in the heart of downtown, or opt for a more luxurious escape at Siena Hotel, which is inspired by a Tuscan villa and home to Il Palio, the state’s only AAA Four Diamond Italian restaurant. Then, pop over to the North Carolina Botanical Garden to scope out the beautiful display gardens and take a stroll through the Piedmont nature trails. A few minutes’ drive away, the Ackland Art Museum features an impressive collection of Asian and European art and North Carolina pottery. For spirits enthusiasts, stop by Top of the Hill Distillery for a tour and tasting of spirits exclusively crafted from North Carolina-grown wheat. When hunger strikes, there are many tempting options. There’s Mama Dip’s Kitchen, a true intro into Southern cuisine; Al’s Burger Shack; Crook’s Corner, a local’s hotspot for over three decades (shrimp and grits are not to miss); Lantern, for celebrated chef Andrea Reusing’s Asian-inspired menu with a focus on Southern ingredients; and Sutton’s Drug Store for no-frills deli sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers and milkshakes; to name a few.

Lawrence, Kansas

Lawrence may be best known as the home of the University of Kansas, but the Haskell Indian Nations University also resides here, energizing the town with a double dose of collegiate vitality. Bookended by the Kansas River (known as the Kaw) and the Wakarusa Rives, KU Jayhawks territory encourages active visitors to come out and play with hiking and biking trails, more than 50 public parks, the South Park gazebo concert stage and late summer fields full of sunflowers.

Populated with local shops, restaurants, and entertainment, Massachusetts Street (“Mass” for short) is the centerpiece of the historic downtown district. The town’s vibrant cultural offerings appeal to creative types through an expansive collection of museums, theaters, and performing arts venues.

Pick any of these 5 amazing college towns to visit in 2020 with XcelTripto make memories that last a lifetime and feel young again while you party with the college crowd.

Plan A Trip To The Amazon

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The Amazon basin is a marvel of the world and the imagination, an ecosystem of unrivalled size and diversity, and a place of near mythical status among travellers. The Amazon River has more water than the next eight largest rivers combined, and is twice the area of India, and the basin spans eight countries.

It’s a life spring of the planet, the source of so much of the air, water and weather we all depend on. However, unreasonable travel expectations — like seeing jaguars around every bend — can be a recipe for disappointment. For all its size, the joys of the Amazon are mostly subtle: the ghostly roar of howler monkeys, the remarkable variety of plant life, the kindliness of riverside communities and the quiet but awesome power of the river itself. Here we focus on accessing the Amazon in Brazil.

When to go

May to June is a great time to visit, being midway between the rainiest months (February to April) and the hottest driest ones (September to November). It’s also when the water level in the Amazon River is highest and the surrounding forest is flooded. The Amazon rises and falls by an amazing 12 to 15 meters annually, and few experiences are more sublime, or uniquely Amazonian, than gliding silently in a canoe through the flooded forest. That said, the dry season is attractive for its clear weather and opportunities for long hikes.

Where to go

Manaus is the region’s largest city, and the quickest and easiest route into the jungle. You’ll find many good tour operators here, from budget to upscale. The flip side is that tours tend to be more crowded, and the surrounding area is less pristine.

Getting there

Manaus is serviced by direct flights from all over Brazil, and even Miami. You can also get there by boat from anywhere on the Amazon, including Belém and Porto Velho, but be prepared for a long trip (two to five days).

You can reach Teféand Alter do Chão by air or by boat. For Tefé, most flights and boats connect through Manaus. For Alter do Chão, catch a plane or boat from Manaus or Belém to the city of Santarém, and take a bus or taxi from there (35km). Speedboats are available between Manaus and Tefé, and are faster than an ordinary boat but cheaper than a plane.

Amazon experiences

A common way to experience the Amazon is at a ‘jungle lodge’. Most lodges feature private rooms, family-style meals and daily excursions, but amenities such as en suite bathrooms and 24-hour electricity vary. Many lodges include a chance to sleep in the forest, whether just a night at an established camp or hiking for two or three days on a ‘survival tour’. Near Manaus, Amazon Antonio Jungle Tours and Amazon Gero Tours have good lodges and reasonable rates. Upscale options in the same area include Juma Lodge and Anavilhanas Lodge. And one of the best lodges in the entire Amazon is Uakari Lodge in Mamirauá Reserve.

Riverboats offer another way to see the Amazon — chugging along the river, stopping for excursions, sleeping on board. The boats vary in creature comforts, from hammocks to deluxe berths, and trips typically last five to 10 days. Reliable operators include Amazon Eco Adventures, Lo Peix and Amazon Brazil Jungle Tours.

Plan your trip to the Amazon with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

10 Amazing Foods To Try In Brazil

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azil that just sum up everything good about food in this country, and when you’ve come and gone, it’s these 10 amazing foods to try in Brazil, that you will definitely miss the most. Your trip to South America just isn’t complete unless you’ve tried all of the following Brazilian foods at least once, with XcelTrip:

Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro is balls of tuffles made with condensed milk and covered in chocolate sprinkles. The traditional brigadeiro is milk chocolate, yet there are also white chocolate versions available, too. They can get even more delicious when made with a whole strawberry in the middle.

Canjica

Canjica is a bowl of whole pieces of white corn mixed with milk, a splash of coconut milk and condensed milk to make a creamy, enviable dessert with sprinkles of cinnamon on top. It is usually served during the annual June Festival, yet as it is too tasty to save for just once a year, it’s easy to find year-round.

Pão de Queijo

This is so much more than just cheese bread. Made with cassava flour so it is totally gluten-free, these little puffs are crispy on the outside, squidgy on the inside and filled with cheesy flavor. They can be sold in packets with mini cheese balls inside, or as great balls the size of large oranges.

Romeu and Julieta

This simple yet incredible combination works on so many levels that it is a marvel how it hasn’t caught on worldwide. It’s guava paste, like a thick jelly, served in between two slices of mild, white cheese. It can be the main part of a pie, a pastel, a cheesecake or simply served as guava jelly and cheese.

Açaí

Super-food açaí is traditional in Brazil, especially in coastal cities where it is a common post-beach snack. Try it plain as sorbet, or ask for banana, strawberry or granola to be added in to take it to a whole new level of tastiness. Açaí can also be found as a smoothie, a juice, in powder or even added into a main meal using its raw, berry form.

Beijinho de Coco

The name literally translates to little kiss of coconut, which fits perfectly with this mouth-sized dessert. It’s made with condensed milk and butter mixed together before being rolled up into little balls and covered in coconut flakes. The top is often decorated with a clove. Light and moreish, these little treats are popular at Brazilian birthday parties.

Coxinhas

This hearty snack is a heap of shredded chicken wrapped up in a gooey, warm dough before being battered and fried. Some even mix the chicken inside with cream cheese for that extra, juicy bite. With its crispy outside texture and soft, fluffy inside, it’s hard to stop at just one.

Empada

Empadas are mini pies that are sold in nearly all snack bars, bars and restaurants throughout Brazil. They are perfect as an on-the-go snack or washed down with a cold beer. The most typical fillings are dried meat, chicken with cream cheese, prawns with cream cheese or heart of palm.

Farofa

Farofa is unique to Brazil and its taste and significance is hard to understand without actually trying it. It is basically fried tapioca flour mixed with small pieces of fried bacon and served alongside rice and beans. Whilst it doesn’t sound much, it is amazing how it works so well with beans and rice, absorbing the juices and adding an extra texture to an otherwise quite mushy meal.

Feijoada

Feijoada is one of the Brazilian main dishes you can find the most and is eaten in every corner of the country. It’s a pot of black beans cooked with chunks of meat, although the truly traditional feijoadas cook it with pig’s ears, trotters and other parts. It’s served with fried kale mixed with bacon bits, rice, farofa (here, farofa works so well to absorb those last bits of bean sauce) and a slice of orange to flavour.

Travel with XcelTrip to south America and make sure to eat one of the above 10 amazing foods to try in Brazil, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Consortium Blockchain Explained

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Blockchain is a piece of technology that was created by a pseudonymous group or individual under the name Satoshi Nakamoto. Satoshi arranged blockchain in a manner that was envisioned to facilitate a decentralized and trust less online payments ecosystem in the form of the digital currency Bitcoin. This has deposited the making of other digital currencies and assets which all utilize blockchain technology as a base upon which to build their various platforms. The most common type of blockchains are public, with the most prevalent being Bitcoin and Ethereum. Though, blockchain types such as a consortium blockchain are another thought-provoking application of Satoshi’s initial blockchain execution.

Consortium blockchains can best be understood when compared to their more popular counterpart, public blockchains. This type of blockchain is one that possesses no access restriction, meaning that absolutely anyone with an internet connection can become a participant of a public blockchain. More specifically, anyone in the world is able to read data that is included on the blockchain, and anyone in the world is allowed to execute transactions on a public blockchain. Importantly, there is also no restrictions as to who can participate in the consensus process for blockchains, which is the process that determines the individual or entity that can add a block to the blockchain. Public blockchains are considered to be fully decentralized, with control over the blockchain not being in the hands of any single individual or entity.

Consortium Blockchain

Consortium blockchains differ to their public counterparts in that they are permissioned, thus, not just anyone with an internet connection could gain access to a consortium blockchain. These types of blockchains could also be described as being semi-decentralized. Control over a consortium blockchain is not granted to a single entity, but rather a group of approved individuals. With a consortium blockchain, the consensus process is likely to differ from that of a public blockchain. Instead of anyone being able to partake in the procedure, consensus participants of a consortium blockchain are likely to be a group of pre-approved nodes on the network. Thus, consortium blockchains possess the security features that are inherent in public blockchains, whilst also allowing for a greater degree of control over the network. An example is Hyperledger is an open source collaborative effort that has been created to advance cross-industry blockchain technologies. Created by the Linux Foundation, the technical goals of Hyperledger are the following:

Create enterprise grade, open source, distributed ledger frameworks and code bases to support business transactions.
Provide neutral, open and community-driven infrastructure supported by technical and business governance.
Build technical communities to develop blockchain and shared ledger use cases, field trails and deployments.

Consortium blockchains are often associated with enterprise use, with a group of companies collaborating together to leverage blockchain technology for improved business processes.

Crypto and Blockchain Events That You Must Attend

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Here is a list of 9 blockchain and crypto events that you ought to travel to in 2020. Book your tickets with XcelTrip and make connections to grow your knowledge and connections.

10 February, 2020

DAS: London

DAS: London is designed with financial market professionals in mind, DAS: London will bring together 500 attendees to speak directly to the financial institutions, asset managers, and blockchain pioneers about the issues most pressing to them. Topics for this year’s conference include market infrastructure, trading mechanics in exchange and OTC markets, derivatives, exchange-traded products, and perspectives from managers and allocators. DAS is different from other blockchain industry conferences because it is designed with the financial market and investment professionals in mind.

Location: The Rosewood Hotel, London

20- 21 February, 2020

Blockchain Economy, Istanbul

The largest Blockchain conference of the MENA and Eurasia Region, that will be held on February 20–21, 2020, in Istanbul, Turkey. This will be the 2nd event and the 1st event was the largest blockchain event in this region, too. The Wall Street analyst Tom LEE, billionaire investor Tim DRAPER was some of our keynote speakers. For 2020, we’ll host more than 3,000 attendees from 60 countries. Also, I want to kindly mention that Tom LEE already accepted to attend again this year as a keynote speaker.

Location: WOW Convention Center

25–26 February, 2020

Unlock blockchain Forum 2020, Abu Dhabi

UNLOCK Blockchain Forum is an integral part of the blockchain ecosystem in the region as it sheds light on what is being done in Blockchain across the MENA region and specifically in the GCC. It will focus on the success stories in the MENA region whether governmental, financial, health, and others. We will also discuss the tokenization movement including Security token offerings across the board and the rise of crypto exchanges in the MENA region.

Location: Millennium Central Al Mafraq

2–6 March, 2020

Hong Kong Blockchain Week 2020

Hong Kong Blockchain Week delivers specialist content and expert discussions directly from industry leaders who are building the future of blockchain technology and digital assets. Professionals from all parts of the ecosystem, including investors, government, start-ups and enterprise come together for deep learning, robust discussions and high-impact networking.

Location: Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel

4–11 March, 2020

London Blockchain Week 2020

Join the world’s leading global network for fintech, blockchain and digital impact for the 2020 London Blockchain Week, the annual multi-series of events, covering the latest trends, controversies and education on Blockchain.

Location: Northumberland street, London, UK

17–18 March, 2020

Blockchain Expo Global, London

Blockchain Expo Global focuses on the future of enterprise technology. The event showcases two days of top-level content from leading brands, embracing and developing cutting edge blockchain technologies. It will present a series of expert keynotes, interactive panel discussions and solution-based case studies.

Location: Olympia Grand, London

23–24 March, 2020

World Blockchain Summit 2020

World Blockchain Summit is a global series of elite gatherings that take place in 10+ destinations across the world. The conference features enterprise use-cases, government use-cases, inspirational keynotes, panel discussions, tech-talks, blockchain exhibition, startup pitch competitions, and a host of networking opportunities.

Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

31 March- 1 April, 2020

Paris blockchain week summit

Paris Blockchain Week Summit is the biggest Blockchain & Digital Assets event in Europe gathering 2500 attendees, 130 speakers and 50 sponsors from all around the world.

On March 31 2020, join us for two days of insightful talks and workshops held by the leaders and influencers of the crypto ecosystem.

Location: STATION F — 5 Parvis Alan Turing 75013 Paris, France

1–2 July, 2020

Blockchain Expo Global, Europe

The Blockchain conference agenda will present a series of expert keynotes, interactive panel discussions and solution-based case studies. All exploring the key industries that are set to be disrupted the most by this new technology, including; legal sectors, retail, financial services, healthcare, insurance, energy, music, government, real estate and more.

Location: RAI Amsterdam, Amsterdam

Book your tickets to the events on XcelTripand keep your eyes open for some cool offers for these events.

10 Most Colourful Places To Visit Around The World

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Colour has an effect on us psychologically, they tend to leave a mark in our minds. This article covers the likes of psychedelic deserts of Ethiopia to China’s rainbow-hued mountains, the world is FULL of colourful wonders waiting to be explored.

Put any and all of these 10 most colourful places to visit around the world, on your travel list for the year of 2020:

Havana, Cuba

Rich in culture, character, relaxation and rebellion, Cuba’s capital city of Havana is a riot of colour and surprises. Past and present mix seamlessly here with pastel-shaded colonial buildings, Brooklyn-cool bars and vintage cars lining the shadowy streets. Creaky front doors are left open, old men play chess on the sidewalk, jazz rocks from every corner. There’s glitz and glamour too with Old Havana, built around five spectacular plazas and boasting an array of museums, galleries and restaurants — and the best mojitos on earth. Tourism in Cuba has mushroomed in the last couple of years, so get here soon before it becomes unrecognisable.

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Nestled in the imposing Rif Mountains, ‘The Blue Pearl’ of Chefchaouen is a striking contrast to its arid setting. A picture-postcard perfect collection of blue and white buildings, the city dates back to the 15th century when Jewish refugees fleeing the Spanish Inquisition settled in large numbers, bringing with them their tradition of painting things blue to mirror the sky and remind them of God.

They did a good job covering every inch of the city in this distinctive palette: houses, mosques, government buildings, public squares, lampposts — even the flowerpots. Colour aside, there’s also a buzzing culinary scene, medina streets lined with handmade wares and an ancient fortress to explore.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Clinging to steeply terraced cliffs on the Italian Riviera, the pretty fishing villages that make up Cinque Terre are pastel-painted perfection, dating back to the early medieval period. Swim in the pristine waters, wander through olive groves, while away the hours at a harbour-side cafe or hike the network of coastal trails.

Laguna Colorada, Bolivia

Surrounded by rolling mountains and craggy rocky shores, the ‘Red Lagoon’ may be less than three feet deep but it still packs a punch as one of the world’s most colourful places. High up in the Andes mountains, close to the Chile border, this shallow salt lake, dotted with tiny islands of sodium, is tinted blood red thanks to the algae thriving in its mineral-rich water.

Further colour splashes come from the large number of resident flamingos, including some of the rarest flamingo species in the world. You can combine a trip here with an excursion to the world-famous nearby Salar de Uyuni.

Caño Cristales River, Colombia

Found in the mountain range of Serranía de la Macarena, this crystal clear ‘river of five colours’ is considered one of the oldest rivers in the world. Surrounded by a savannah-meets-jungle landscape, a subaquatic red plant — Macarenia clavigera — grows in the riverbed, resulting in a mesmerising mixture of black rocks, green algae, blue water and yellow sand.

Despite its unnatural appearance, you can safely splash around in the river, which features waterfalls, pools, and caverns. Go anytime from July to November when the river is at its most colourful.

Hitsujiyama Park, Japan

Japan is known for its cherry blossoms so visiting during cherry blossom season is an absolute must. Visit Hitsujiyama Park for the picturesque shibazakura which translates as ‘lawn cherry blossoms’.

From late April to early May, head to Shibazakura Hill in Hitsujiyama Park. With over 400,000 trees of nine different varieties, it’s a perfect patchwork of pink, red, white and violet, set against the backdrop of the gargantuan Mount Buko. For serious viewing pleasure, catch the Chichibu Shibazakura Festival in the park, where the petals are arranged in an extravaganza of shapes and swirls.

Kampung Pelangi, Indonesia

Dubbed the ‘Rainbow Village’, this formerly unassuming spot in southern Indonesia has been given an extreme makeover by the local council. The result? A bonanza of fun and colour, from dazzling striped walls and polka-dot panels to psychedelic heart murals and 3D sharks.

Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, China

One of Mother Nature’s greatest masterpieces, this rocky landscape ofZhangye Danxia Landform Geological Parkin the Gansu province is known for its otherworldly colours that mimic a rainbow painted over the tops of rolling mountains.

This striped technicolour effect is down to the erosion of red sandstone coupled with extreme desert conditions over the course of 24 million years. This caused the rock to dramatically striate into extraordinary shapes, sizes and colours of magenta, maroon, and lemon-hued stone. Catch the rainbow at its best from June to September during dawn or dusk.

Valley Of Flowers National Park, India

Sitting high in the West Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers National Park is a place of outstanding natural beauty. As well as floral pastures, running streams and the beautiful backdrop of snow-capped mountains, there are endless meadows of orchids, poppies, primulas, calendulas, daisies and anemones alongside alpine forests of birch and rhododendron.

The area is also home to rare and endangered wildlife, including the Asiatic black bear, a snow leopard, brown bear and blue sheep. The park is even immortalised in Hindu mythology; legend goes that the monkey god, Hanuman, collected the mythical herb Sanjeevani buti from this park to save Lakshmana.

Dallol, Ethiopia

Dallol is not only the hottest inhabited place on the planet, it’s also one of the most striking thanks to its incredible colours. A vast volcanic crater in the heart of the Danokil desert, the endless landscape is a psychedelic-coloured mix of acidic hot springs, mountains of sulphur, salt canyons and miniature geysers.

Called ‘The Gateway to Hell’ by locals, bubbling bright cyan lava lakes and neon yellow acid pools lie alongside pink-coloured formations rising from bright green gas. Pack your most charming smile (the Afar tribesman appreciate friendly visitors) and lightest clothing then hitch a lift on a camel caravan or — easier option — rent a 4WD vehicle from the nearby town of Mekele.

Travel to any of these 10 most colourful places to visit around the world, with XcelTrip and use Bitcoin to make memories that last a lifetime.

Ocean Cay: Marine Reserve

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Deemed as a paradise in the Bahamas, 104.6 Kms south of Miami, Ocean Cay is a 95-acre marine reserve island is owned by MSC Cruises that started welcoming visitors in December 2019. Due to its proximity to Mami there are multiple cruises that you can take to visit this luxurious island. Though the island may seem small, it is well planned out to make sure that you have a relaxing time on the beach. Here are a few things you can do on the Ocean Cay island, by using KAU on XcelTrip:

Activities:

The Island has a lot of activities to offer that allows you to explore the island, the marine life and relax.

Scuba Diving

Take an introductory discover scuba diving course for non-certified divers. Experience the thrill of diving under the care and close supervision of one of our expert PADI Dive Instructors. Although this course does not certify you as a diver, it’s a fun introduction to scuba diving and give you credit towards your diver course should you decide to continue on to be a fully certified Open Water Diver upon your return home.

Beachside Stargazing

Enjoy a welcome drink as your guide, using state of the art computerized tracking telescopes, finds the most striking star clusters, planets, nebulas and galaxies on display that evening. An evening of unbelievable stargazing under the Bahamian sky awaits you, during which you’ll learn some fun space facts about the solar system.

Marine Reserve Snorkelling

Experience a fabulous snorkelling adventure by rubbing shoulders with the many curious creatures of the Bahamas. All snorkelling gear will be provided with instructions for use.

Food on Ocean Cay

If you’re up for some Bahaman cuisine, tropical drinks and snacks the island has a lot to offer.

Seakers Food Court

Discover American classics, Bahamian flavours and dining options for kids. You can also choose one of the beverage packages available to be consumed on the island. A second buffet will be available in the near future.

Food Trucks

Grab a quick bite at one of the food trucks located throughout the island or a drink at one of our beach bars.

Lighthouse Bar

At 100 feet tall, the red and white lighthouse is a striking landmark. Enjoy drinks and food with live music and DJs and an evening visual experience that will enhance the atmosphere.

Shopping

Shopping on the island is taking home a piece of Bahaman culture and art back home.

Bahaman Straw Market

Take a piece of the island with you and shop for authentic Bahamian products at The Bahamian Shop & Artisan Market

Unlike other venues on the island, the Bahamian Artisan Market does not accept the Cruise Card as a form of payment, so please remember to bring some cash (USD).

MSC Logo Shop

Browse our selection of MSC-branded products and take-home memories of your cruise.

You can book your Cruise to the island on theOcean Cay website from the coasts of Miami or New York, if you you’re wondering how to get to any of these coasts, book your flight tickets with KAU on XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

5 Underrated Places To Visit In Brazil

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Throughout the nation of Brazil there are many stunning cities, yet they don’t continuously get the attention they merit. If you are scheduling a trip in the near future, you may want to stay out of the palpable tourist-focused cities like Rio de Janeiro and in its place try one of the other cities that are just as gorgeous but with half the crowds. Many of these places have continued to stay off the radar merely because they are not as popular among tourists, while some can be a little hard to get to as there are no airports directly connecting them. Here are 5 underrated places to visit in Brazil that are absolutely stunning, with XcelTrip:

Curitiba, Paraná

Unlike many popular Brazilian cities, Curitiba sits inland, away from the coastline and consequently, the beaches that make the country so popular. Despite this, the city of Curitiba has much to offer in terms of attractions, especially if you’re into art and nature. The Botanical Garden of Curitiba is one of the most popular places to visit in this city and offers a serene French-inspired nature escape. Also popular is the Oscar Niemeyer Museum which focus on visual arts, architecture and design.

Lençóis National Park, Maranhão

At first glance, this national park in Brazil’s south end may look like a dessert but closer inspection sees that the giant sweeping sand dunes are broken up by turquoise lagoons. The spectacular landscape is created by rainfall as the area sits just outside the Amazon basin and this rainfall collects in the valleys between the dunes. The water remains above ground thanks to a layer of impermeable rock underneath the sand. Visiting the park will be tricky as there are no access roads and 4-wheel drive vehicles are required but make the trip and this is a view you won’t soon forget.

Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro

The island of Ilha Grande sits off the coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro and is truly a piece of Brazilian paradise. The island is still very undeveloped and unspoiled by tourism so visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of this Atlantic rainforest. Pristine beaches are ripe for snorkelling and rugged terrain provide plenty of hiking and exploration opportunities.

Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco

If you’re going toBrazil for the beaches, Porto de Galinhas is one town that you simply can’t miss. Located about 60 kilometers south of the state capital of Recife, this destination has been voted “Best Brazilian Beach” eight times in a row by the readers of Voyage &Tourism Brazilian magazine. There’s spectacular reef snorkelling just a couple hundred meters from the shore and at low tide you can explore the natural tide pools teeming with marine life.

Fortaleza, Ceará

Despite the size of this Brazilian state capital, it still remains relatively underrated as most international tourists tend to stick to the better-known names like Rio and Sao Paulo but the name may be familiar as the city played host to the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The rapidly growing city is a popular leisure destination for Brazilians who enjoy the 25 kilometers of urban beach front along the city’s coast. Each of the four beach areas of Iracema, Meireles, Mucuripe and Praia do Futuro has its own distinct vibe.

Plan your vacation to these 5 underrated places to visit in Brazil with XcelTrip and make memories to last a lifetime.

8 Wonderful Locations To Visit In Brazil

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Brazil boasts over 70 national parks and dozens of monuments, including one of the Seven Wonders of the New World — Christ the Redeemer, in Rio de Janeiro. Together, these attractions create one of the most appealing and exciting destinations in South America. People come from every corner of the world to find silver coasts, dazzling blue oceans, sprawling metropolises, and thick jungles that are home to monkeys, jaguars, and river dolphins. Here are 8 wonderful locations to visit in Brazil:

Rio de Janeiro

A city known for its stark contrasts, Rio de Janeiro perfectly blends golden shores, tremendous forests, and a bustling metropolis to create a home for its six million residents and an exotic holiday destination for its millions of annual tourists. Besides the obvious attractions such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, and Copacabana, don’t miss the more off-the-beaten-track spots such as theunforgettableTransCarioca 180-kilometer hike, or the mesmerizing sunset at Arpoador. If you love music, then you don’t need to wait for Carnival for a samba hit; head to the samba schools for their all-year-round samba shows including live music and jaw-dropping dancers.

Belo Horizonte

Belo Horizonte is known for its bar scene rather than thumping nightclubs that comprise dozens of bars packed together to create the ideal late-night drinking spot for socializing and winding down at the end of the week. For food, you’ve come to the right place as everything from mobile stalls to sophisticated restaurants serve up classic Minas Gerais cuisine molded around home comfort and slow-cooking. If art is more your thing, hire a car to Inhotim, a large interactive art gallery set within a botanical garden.

São Paulo

They don’t call São Paulo the ‘concrete jungle’ for nothing. The often misunderstood city is home to over 13 million people and is regarded as the business and financial capital of Brazil. Yet that sweeping definition overlooks the quirks and curiosities that make São Paulo the buzzing cosmopolitan city that it is. For culture, visit some of the country’s finest art galleries and museums before treating your palate at any of the international restaurants celebrated for their haute cuisine. For a change of pace, head to Praca Roosevelt for hipster bars and an alternative, liberal crowd. Pack your stamina for the nightlife that helped give São Paulo its reputation as a city that doesn’t sleep.

Olinda

Originally founded in the early 16th century by the Portuguese settlers, Olinda is a small colonial town neighboring the much larger Recife. Its collection of baroque churches, 18th century convents, and vibrantly-colored houses cling to the hillside coupling exquisite architecture with sweeping ocean views. The local bohemian crowd have restored many of the buildings into artistic hubs, creating a center of art galleries, museums, and open studios. Go there in February to experience one of Brazil’s most traditional and lively carnivals.

Fernando de Noronha

Escape from it all on this picturesque and exclusive gem. Located 350 kilometers off the coast of Brazil, you have to take a flight from Recife to get to this volcanic archipelago. With jagged coastlines, unspoiled scenery, and shallow seas brimming with tropical fish, sharks, turtles, and dolphins, this protected area grants several opportunities for relaxation on golden beaches and getting close to wildlife. The ecological sanctuary limits the number of visitors per year, which is why it still boasts some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Brazil.

Bonito

Bonito is located in Mato Grosso do Sul on the border of the Pantanal and comprises crystal clear freshwater pools and deep abysses that create a unique ecosystem. Nutrient-rich rivers such as the Rio da Prata nourish hundreds of freshwater species and grant pleasant snorkeling opportunities among tight-knit shoals of brightly-colored fish. From stalactite-carpeted caverns and underground lakes to a depression in the earth that supports the nest of flocks of macaws, Bonito is a place that impresses with its ecology and beauty alike.

Chapada Diamantina

Take a walk through the wild at the Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia. In addition to rocky landscapes of flat-top mountains and deep canyons, the landscape is dotted with incredible natural wonders such at the Cachoeira da Fumaça, one of Brazil’s largest waterfalls where the water lacks volume to reach the bottom and turns into a cloud of mist. Yet one of the most striking features in the area is the two deep, underground cavities — Poço Encantado and Poço Azul. The two pools contain water so clear that it appears the crevices are empty and the sunlight that enters gives the pool a striking electric blue hue.

Amazon

One of the most striking ecosystems in Brazil, the vast Amazon rainforest continues to be an imposing, mysterious jungle despite deforestation and illegal mining in the area. The complex ecosystem comprises hundreds of species of flora and fauna that co-exist in a network unlike any other in the world. Sustainable tours in the region are actually good for the forest by providing an income to resource-lacking locals who come to depend on tourism instead of hunting endangered animals. It also gives you the chance to explore a magnificent part of the world where river dolphins, monkeys, and brightly-coloured tree frogs call home.

Book your vacation with XcelTrip and plan your travels to these 8 wonderful locations to visit in Brazil to make memories that last a lifetime.

2019 At A Glance

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As the year of 2019 comes to an end, here are all the wonderful partnerships, changes and events that the XcelLab has created and been a part of, that have made the year a memorable one.

Under XcelTrip– a Next- Generation travel platform powered by the blockchain technology, has been built solely to disrupt the ever-growing trillion-dollar travel industry. The features are scrupulously created to democratize crypto use-cases, that challenges the monopoly of the ecosystem by giving the power back to the users by providing the users full control over their bookings and their anonymity.

An inventory of 1.5 million hotels were added with the partnership with ClearTrip, PriceLine and more. XcelTrip in the year 2019 also the integration of multiple cryptocurrencies such as Litecoin, Dash, Verge currency, announced at Verge meet-up at Rotterdamand KAU (Kinesis).

XcelTrip became the official Travel partners for the Manny Pacquiao Foundation, announced during the WCC Las Vegas that was conducted between the 29th to the 31st of October, 2019. It was also at this event the Didi of the Bitcoin Familywas assigned and announced as an advisor. Aside from this event Team XcelTrip was present at the Blockchain Event in Nigeria, Fintech Expo in Singapore and at Asia Blockchain Summit, Taipei.

XcelTrip is reaching a mass audience through interviews and with a vigorous digital Media presence.

This year also saw the genesis of XcelTrip Nepal, the first of its Kind OTA platform that is aimed at promoting Nepal 2020, in partnership with the Nepal Tourism Board.

XcelTokenreceived a much-needed upgrade of security and was released as XcelToken Plus (XLAB), which is an ERC20 token on the Ethereum Blockchain Platform, that is painstakingly crafted with the purpose of building, engaging and fostering a large crypto-community within the hospitality, retail and gaming sectors.XcelToken Plus is now available for trading on 14 well reputed exchange platforms under the ticker name XLAB.

XLAB was listed on CMC is steadily gaining traction, like its sister verticals- XcelTrip and XcelPay Wallet.

XcelPay Wallet app received an update that would allow the users to top up their mobile phone plan, with Ethreum and bitcoin in over 160 countries, with over 900 carrier. Later this year another update rolled out, that carried UI changes, to enhance the user experience and simplify the transaction process.

2019 was surely the year of progress and we hope to make the year 2020 one that is filled with productivity and excellence.

20 Cuisines Around The World To Try In 2020

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As a new decade is approaching us and it’s the time to make resolutions that will make us better as individuals and at the same time help us have a bit of fun. Here are 20 cuisines from around the world to try in 2020, with KAU (Kinesis)- a Gold backed cryptocurrency that eliminates storage fees for physical gold bullion, in addition to offering holders a unique fee-sharing yield model that adds an extra layer of value to gold holders in the form of monthly payments. KAU is now available on XcelTrip, book your travels now. Add these cuisines to your list of 20 in 2020–

Indian Food

India is one of the most densely populated countries on the planet. With so many people within the nation, Indian cuisine is highly varied. Curries are the traditional fare, but Indian food is not confined for curry. There are a number of regions that make vegetarian dishes, and ayurvedic medicinal traditions are often used in creating food. Within India, visitors will find a range of sweet, hot and spicy dishes. Even better, the nation is home to millions of street food stands. At these stands, visitors can try out unique treats for a very cheap price.

Soul Food

During slavery, African-American slaves were only given the leftover, unwanted food. Often, slave owners would try to feed them as little as possible as a way of saving money. This early origin caused soul food to develop. Slaves at the times used collards, mustard greens, turnip tops, dandelions and beets to make up their diet. They often were given the unwanted parts of the meat like offal, oxtail, pigs ears, lard and tripe. With these unwanted, inexpensive pieces, the slaves of the time managed to create a unique, delicious cuisine. Today, soul food includes dishes like chitlins, fried chicken, hog maw, pigs feet, fried okra, collard greens, corn bread, grits and hush puppies. After a delicious meal of soul food, you may not be hungry enough to eat dessert. If you are, you can look forward to cobbler, pecan pie or sweet potato pie.

Cajun Food

Long ago, the French Acadian people had to flee Canada. Although some of the Acadians went back to France, others chose to move to Louisiana. Once there, they combined French cooking style with local ingredients. This type of cuisine is normally formatted within three dishes. The first pot will contain the main dish while another pot contains vegetables. A third pot will generally contain a mixture of steamed rice and seafood. Popular meat choices include pork sausage, shrimp and fish. Due to the area, Cajun cuisine focuses heavily on celery, bell peppers, garlic and onions. Other flavorings include cayenne pepper, bay leaf, black pepper and green onions.

Greek Cuisine

Like Italian cuisine, Greek food dates back thousands of years. Many common Greek dishes have unknown origins because they have been around so long. This cuisine has a unique mix of different Mediterranean styles. Back in the day, the Greeks were well-positioned to become a major port for sea trading. Every time sailors returned from traveling, they brought back different dishes and dining styles. In Greece, visitors can expect fresh herbs, olive oil and feta. Due to its location near the sea, fish is a popular dining option. Pork and lamb are common meat choices because many of the islands are too small to host cattle.

Chinese Food

If characterizing Indian food was hard, Chinese food is impossible to pin down. China has one of the most diverse mixes of cultures and cuisines in the world. The main eight styles of cooking are: Fujian, Cantonese, Anhui, Zhejiang, Szechuan, Shandong and Hunan. In Chinese traditional medicine and culture, the opposites of yin and yang must always be kept in balance. This same balance extends to food. When cooking, the Chinese try to balance different colors, tastes, textures and smells. This focus has paid off and made Chinese cuisine one of the world’s finest.

In a traditional Chinese meal, you can expect to have noodles or rice. Although many American-based Chinese restaurants use fried rice, most China-based Chinese restaurants serve basic steamed rice. With a strong Buddhist history, vegetarian dishes like tofu remain popular. Interestingly, garlic and chilies are considered non-vegetarian in Buddhism because they stimulate the chi. If you go to a Chinese vegetarian restaurant, don’t expect a lot of spices. For non-vegetarian dishes, you can expect Peking duck, thousand year old eggs, squid and a range of meat dishes. Vegetables are always included with dinner, and they are far from your mother’s broccoli. Chinese vegetable dishes are often the most delicious part of the meal.

Lebanese Cuisine

Due to its location, Lebanon has adopted Arabic and Mediterranean influences. Lebanese food uses a lot of fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood. Other than fish, it does not contain a big focus on meat. When dining at a Lebanese restaurant, you can expect delicious pickles, unique salads, Arabic bread, vegetable dishes and vegetable dips.

Japanese Cuisine

The Hibachi or Teppanyaki grill are some of the most delectable of Japanese dining options. At a Hibachi grill, you can watch a cook flip, fry, griddle and cut the food in front of you. This cuisine focuses on noodles, tofu, sushi and vegetables. Each meal is meticulously prepared and exceptionally delicious. Even better, Japanese restaurants often serve oolong or green tea.

American Food

American food is an extremely popular dining option. With so many cultures moving in and out of the country, American food encompasses a range of different dining styles. In Chicago, the deep dish pizza has become famous. Texas has five-alarm chili while the Pacific Northwest is home to microbreweries and coffee. At most traditional American diners, you can expect hot dogs, hamburgers, buffalo wings, biscuits & gravy and omelets.

Thai Food

Over the last decade, Thai food has grown in popularity. Hands down, the most popular dish is pad thai. To truly experience Thai cuisine, you should step away from the basic pad thai and try some of the broths and noodle dishes that make this cuisine so delectable. This cuisine focuses on a lot of herbs and offers a range of sweet, sour, spicy and bitter tastes. It focuses on fresh herbs, so this cuisine always has a vivid flavor.

Mediterranean Cuisine

There is some debate if there is actually a Mediterranean cuisine. This term mostly developed in the 1970s when there was a Mediterranean diet. In general, it consists of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and olive oil. Depending on who you ask, it could include different Greek, Italian, Arabic, European or North African dishes.

Moroccan Food

Expect Moroccan cuisine to become the next major hit over the coming decade. With such a rich history and unique dishes, this cuisine is one of the world’s finest. It uses Mediterranean fruits and vegetables to make spicy, flavor-filled meals. Lamb is a popular meat dish, and has a subtler flavor that Western lamb dishes. Due to its location near the sea, fish and shellfish play a strong role in Moroccan cuisine. Beef and chicken are commonly eaten. A local favorite is known as a Tagine and contains chicken, fries and olives. Many of these dishes are flavored with dried fruit, lemon pick and olive oil. At lunch time, Moroccans eat a hot or cold salad and bread. Famously, this cuisine includes couscous. Bread is a major dish and is known as Khobz. It varies from town to town, but often looks like a type of baguette. Other specialties include salted meat and Moroccan pancakes.

French Food

Say Oui, Oui to French cuisine! Five-star chefs are often trained in French cooking. It uses cheese, chocolate and baguettes for delicious meals. Of course, a French meal would never be complete without some wine! Despite their focus on cheese, bread and chocolates, the French amazingly remain thin.

Spanish Cuisine

Spanish cuisine is exceptional because it limits spices. Instead of hiding the flavor of a dish with cumin, chilies or pepper, it only uses enough spice to bring out the natural flavor of the food. Due to its location along the coast, Spanish food has a strong focus on seafood. Famously, cafes and restaurants in Spain offer tapas or pinches. These snack-sized dishes can be made of basically anything and only cost a couple of euros. Before siesta, Spaniards can stop in a local cafe and get a glass of wine and a tapa for merely a couple of euros.

Korean Food

Many people try kimchi and give up on Korean food for good, but this cuisine is more than just kimchi. If you have not had this dish before, kimchi is a fermented cabbage dish that is mixed with vinegar and spice. Other than this common dish, Korean food contains rice, meat, veggies and seafood. It has a unique flavour that you tend to love or hate.

German Food

From sauerkraut to bratwurst, German is known for its flavourful dishes. Restaurant goers can expect spätzle (potatoes), rich varieties of bread, cheese and sausages. Even better, this country is known for its many delicious beers. Surrounded by the world-famous cuisines of Italy, Spain and France, Germany has not gotten the attention it deserves from foodies.

Vietnamese Food

Vietnamese food has not received nearly the attention it deserves. Due to the French colonization of the area, Vietnamese food contains traditional dishes and French cuisine. Visitors can enjoy vegetables, Vietnamese mint, shrimp paste, lime, basil leaves, soy sauce, fish sauce, fruits and vegetables in their meals. These meals are made to balance the five elements and tastes within the dish, so there is a mixture of sweet, spicy, bitter, sour and salty. Common dishes may include balut, duck meat or ginger.

Turkish Cuisine

Coffee and chocolate are just a fraction of what Turkey has to offer. This cuisine has a delicious vegetable stew, eggplant dishes and seafood-based meals. Stuffed dolmas are always delectable and the yogurt is scrumptious. Foodies enjoy eating dumplings, kebabs and baklava. Olive oil is used in abundance and fresh vegetables are a must-have for Turkish dishes. My personal favourite is the kebab. If you can find a street vendor, you can watch as they peel away meat from the spit. You can eat it on a stick, or some street vendors will put the meat in a pita sandwich-like form.

Mexican Food

Mexican food is a common favourite cuisine in America. From chili con carne to enchiladas, spicy Mexican dishes are a popular choice. Western restaurants typically use Northern Mexican cuisine, but there are a number of other options. Ancient Mayan dishes have a subtler flavor while Central and Southern Mexico have a sophisticated taste. Restaurant goers can enjoy eggs, vegetables, beans, chilies and cumin in major Mexican dishes. Chocolate, tomatoes and salsa are always favourites as well

Italian Cuisine

With a culinary history that stretches back centuries, Italian cuisine is one of the world’s favourites. Spumoni ice cream, spaghetti, lasagna and pizza are traditional dishes that are widely available in the United States. Beyond these basic dishes, there are a number of regional favourites like Parmesan cheese and Parma ham. One part of Italy is even known for making a kind of maggot cheese. The cheese is fermented and allowed to sit out so that flies lay eggs. Afterward, it is packed at the perfect time for maggots to develop. It might not suit everyone’s taste buds, but it is a specialty from the country. If this cheese is not to your liking, the country has more than 400 types of cheese.

Although Italian cuisine varies from region to region, each meal will generally be set up in a similar way. It will begin with the antipasto or appetizer menu. Next, diners enjoy the primo course which consists of pasta or rice. The second course is a meat. To top it off, the last course is the dolce or dessert course.

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20 Amazing Places To Visit In 2020 With KAU

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With 2020 just around the corner, the lists of “20 in 2020’s” are becoming a trend and for those that love travelling here is a list of 20 amazing places to visit in 2020. If you are wondering how you could cover all these places, invest in a cryptocurrency that allows you to travel in the lap of luxury. The best crypto to invest in is the KAU, a Gold backed cryptocurrency that eliminates storage fees for physical gold bullion, in addition to offering holders a unique fee-sharing yield model that adds an extra layer of value to gold holders in the form of monthly payments. You can use this investment on the XcelTrip platform to book your travels and make memories that last a lifetime.

Now that we’ve made sure that the finances of the travels are sorted here are 20 amazing places to visit in 2020:

Armenia

Armeniais on its way to being one of next year’s most talked-about destinations, and there’s more to the tiny Caucasus nation than what makes the nightly news (or Kim Kardashian’s semi-regular visits). Ryanair will begin flying to Armenia in 2020, marking the first time a low-cost airline has serviced the country and ringing in a new era for travel there. The routes will debut with Rome to Yerevan and Milan to Yerevan in January, followed by Memmingen to Gyumri and Berlin to Yerevan the following summer. One-way tickets start at $33, making Armenia a budget-friendly — and blissfully offbeat — add-on to your next trip to Europe.

Bahia, Brazil

Brazil has had a momentous year when it comes to travel. The country has dropped its visa requirements for U.S. citizens. New flight routes have added better connections to Brazilian cities like São Paulo and Salvador from hubs throughout North and South America.

Salvador is the main gateway into the northeast state of Bahia — a region with a rich Afro-Brazilian heritage and a coastline that rivals Rio’s. The capital city has recently seen a slew of notable hotel openings. Hotel Fasano Salvador sits in the headquarters of a former newspaper and overlooks the Bay of All Saints, and the nearby Art Deco Fera Palace, prior to reopening last year, once hosted the likes of Carmen Miranda and Pablo Neruda. The downtown Pelourinho district, where the Fera is, was the site of the first slave market in the Americas in 1558; today it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has just emerged from a restoration of its cobblestone streets and colonial façades. And some things never change: West African dishes, beating music, candomblé religion, and rich history make the state as magnetic as ever.

Botswana’s Salt Pans

Littered with fossils and Stone Age artifacts, Botswana’s Makgadikgadi salt pans are the remains of an ancient super-lake — a salt-encrusted expanse covering more than 6,200 square miles of the Kalahari Desert. Fifth-generation safari operator and naturalist Ralph Bousfield put the harsh yet hypnotically beautiful pans on the safari map 25 years ago when he opened Jack’s Camp, named for his father, who first set up camp here in the 1960s. Marooned on a grassy island on the edge of the pans, it’s still the only safari operation for almost 100 miles. Over the years, royalty and rock stars have been humbled by the landscape and enchanted by the 1940s campaign-style furniture, Bousfield family heirlooms, and Persian-carpeted Rajasthani tents.

Canadian Arctic

The Canadian Arctic is “the world’s last and most pristine wilderness, with places man has not walked upon for over 500 years,” says Tessum Weber, a member of the esteemed family of explorers that runs Weber Arctic. It’s the ultimate destination for travelers, with a certain starkness that only polar regions can provide — though it’s rapidly losing its battle with the ever-rising tides.

Canary Islands, Spain

This archipelago of islands off Africa’s Atlantic coast has attracted sun-seeking European travelers for decades, thanks to its black, white, and buttery-golden beaches. But it’s the mountainous interiors of the seven main islands that are grabbing the global spotlight in 2020. International airports on Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote are the archipelago’s main access points, with a network of car ferries that makes it easy to hopscotch between ports.

Guyana

Though it has plenty of reasons to stand out — as South America’s only English-speaking country, and with a strikingly diverse population of Indian, African, Chinese, European, and Amerindian descent — Guyana has long hovered under the radar. But this relative quietness isn’t going to last long. The 2015 discovery of oil offshore has led to surging interest in the country. What that means for Guyana is still playing out, but so far, its abundance of natural beauty has remained shielded from the masses.

Nashville

Nashville may be nearly synonymous with country music, but it’s no one-note town. The long-awaited National Museum of African American Music will open this summer on Broadway, home of Honky Tonk Row, and will showcase the history and impact of black music from the slave era to the present. Inside the museum — the first of its kind — five interactive galleries are dedicated to 50 genres of African American tunes, including blues, jazz, hip-hop, and rap. Don a choir robe and virtually sing “Oh Happy Day” along with Grammy winner Bobby Jones and his 30-member Nashville Super Choir. A recording of your performance will be sent to the smart bracelet you receive at admission. You can also step into the role of a record producer and arrange vocals and rhythms to create a personalized soul track that can be sent to your bracelet as well. Be sure to check out the 1963 poster for civil rights activist Sam Cooke’s legendary soul performance with Otis Redding at New York’s Paramount Theater, and don’t miss seeing Ella Fitzgerald’s leopard-print coat and a kimono from Alicia Keys’s personal wardrobe.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen doesn’t need to sell itself as a worthy travel destination, what with its long summer days, hygge-filled winters, and unparalleled food scene. Yet the city keeps finding ways to become more travel-friendly, most recently with the extension of the City Ring Line subway line. Areas like the leafy Frederiksberg neighborhood and industrial Nordhavn waterfront are now much more accessible by rail — major for those scared of tackling Copenhagen’s busy bike highways. (Skilled pedalers, however, can breeze down the new Lille Langbro, a pedestrian-and-cyclist swing bridge, which now links both sides of the inner harbor.) Last August the city unveiled Kongens Nytorv, a plaza that for years was hidden under scaffolding. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, the roundabout is a one-stop shop for historically significant buildings like the Royal Danish Theatre, as well as Christmas and flea markets.

Dominica

Although Hurricane Maria made landfall in 2017, its impact is still felt throughout the Caribbean. The tiny, lush island of Dominica — located between Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Eastern Caribbean — sustained intense damage and remains one of the world’s most vulnerable places in the face of climate change. To help protect the island from future storms, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit appeared at the United Nations four days after Hurricane Maria and declared that Dominica would become the first climate-resilient country in the world. To achieve this goal by 2030, the island is banning single-use plastics and Styrofoam; harnessing the renewable energy of the country’s geothermal, hydro, and solar resources; developing sustainable fisheries; and realigning and improving roads to resist flooding and other damage.

El Chaltén, Argentina

On the Patagonian travel circuit, Argentina’s off-grid El Chaltén is often overshadowed by its more sought-after Chilean neighbor, Torres del Paine. The pocket-size Argentine village was founded in 1985 and quickly became a popular base camp for intrepid alpinists on a mission to summit the fabled granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre in the UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park. However, you don’t have to be a die-hard hiker to enjoy the area’s scenic trails. Beginner to moderate routes offer access to Patagonia’s unmarred beauty: primeval forests packed with southern beech trees, snowmelt lagoons, rushing rivers, and jagged zeniths topped with outsized glaciers and floating condors. The upside to El Chaltén’s lower profile is that climbers enjoy less-congested trails. Yet for decades the remote frontier town has remained largely a backpacker outpost due to its lack of top-tier accommodations with high-end amenities like a spa and in-house guides.

Metz, France

It’s a mystery why France’s historic region of Lorraine is still largely overlooked, especially since there was an international tug-of-war over this northeastern province that started in the Middle Ages and lasted for centuries. The region is poised for global attention in 2020, when Metz, the province’s elegant capital, fetes the 800th anniversary of its St.-Étienne Cathedral, a masterpiece of gothic architecture. After a fire threatened to topple Notre-Dame de Paris this past spring, and as the Parisian icon undergoes restoration, consider a visit to the Metz monument, built from local golden limestone. With a 138-foot-tall nave, it’s one of Europe’s tallest gothic buildings. But what really sets it apart are its stained glass windows, which are the world’s largest by surface area, at 70,000 square feet. A highlight is the Old Testament depictions by artist Marc Chagall, whose stained glass will be the focus of an exhibition in October 2020 at the Centre Pompidou-Metz — which is celebrating its 10th anniversary that year.

Dubai

What does a city that manufactured an archipelago of 300 islands on a whim create for a landmark event? As Dubai prepares to make history as the host of the first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, the answer is emerging from the sand: an entire new city. To welcome the 25 million visitors expected to attend the six-month-long event that kicks off in October, the City of Gold has spent billions building up a sprawling site that’s double the size of Hong Kong island. If ever there was a metropolis of the future, this is it: There will be 130 buildings connected by smart technology that can do everything from monitoring the charging of electric vehicles to making sure the buildings’ temperatures are just right for visitors. At the site’s core is Al Wasl Plaza, an engineering feat crowned with a steel dome that can be turned into a 360-degree projection surface.

Rwanda

A country forever marked by its genocide 25 years ago, Rwanda has made exceptional strides in building itself into a place that celebrates and protects its natural resources. A closer look at the East African nation reveals its focus on the future, with the development of its fourth national park, Gishwati Mukura, set to open next year. As the forest develops, it will eventually connect Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park, creating a wildlife corridor that enables local species like chimpanzees and mountain gorillas to flourish.

Tangier, Morocco

We’ve been talking up Morocco as a long weekend destination for a while now, especially with the 2019 launch of two flights on Royal Air Maroc’s Dreamliners, from Boston and Miami to Casablanca. That momentum isn’t slowing down: In June, American Airlines will start a new flight from Philadelphia to Casablanca’s shiny new airport, which recently doubled its capacity to 14 million a year. In the same month, Royal Air Maroc joins Oneworld Alliance, making it much easier for those same travelers to connect to other destinations around Morocco.

Mokpo, South Korea

There’s much more to South Korea than the popular tourism destinations of Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island. Located in the Jeolla region at the southern tip of the peninsula, Mokpo is a big port city that attracts the world’s most in-the-know food lovers, thanks to its fertile lands and easy access to the sea.

A visit to the colorful and electric Mokpo Specialty Seafood Market, an arcade-style covered market, is an absolute must. The best time to visit is in the early hours of the morning, when the market is full of shoppers crowding over the catches of the day.

Southwest Michigan

Ocean-like coastlines and a laid-back vibe have always been southwest Michigan’s biggest draws. But recently the lakefront region has embraced a grown-up take on agritourism and reemphasized its focus on family farms — after all, Michigan is the country’s second most agriculturally diverse state, behind California. In South Haven, a two-hour drive from Chicago, The Fields has opened the Midwest’s first glamping experience, with 10 tents set on 30 acres of blueberry farm. Guests are escorted to their porches in a vintage Ford pickup, wash down fresh fruit pies with locally roasted coffee by the fire, and snuggle up in the stylish, 320-square-foot tents. In 2020 it’s adding five additional tents and an on-site food truck.

Okinawa, Japan

When a catastrophic blaze gutted the 500-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site Shuri Castle last year, Okinawa’s tourism sector fretted that one of the top reasons for visiting Japan’s southernmost prefecture had been wiped out. But as the castle’s restoration fund grows (thanks largely to a crowdfunding campaign), so do fresh reasons to visit these ancient islands in the Pacific Ocean. Across a mile of sugar-soft sand in Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park, the iconic Hawaiian hotel Halekulani has opened its first overseas outpost, bringing with it 360 plush rooms and a taste of Michelin-starred glamour in the form of Shiroux restaurant, where chef Hiroyasu Kawate — of two-starred Florilége in Tokyo — consults. Come April, seek out the remote Yaeyama Islands, where Hoshino Resorts’ revamped Risonare Kohamajima is relaunching along a bougainvillea-laced beach. At this most far-flung part of Japan — it’s actually geographically much closer to Taiwan — there’s little to do but cycle through sugarcane fields and swim in the ridiculously blue Sekisei Lagoon, with one of the largest coral reefs in the northern hemisphere beneath your feet and manta rays by your side.

Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast

It’s only been a decade since Sri Lanka emerged from a brutal 26-year civil war that devastated its residents and decimated its tourism industry. But since 2009, global travelers have flocked to the country, drawn to its alluring beaches and misty tea estates. Sri Lanka regularly found itself topping lists like this one — until this past April, when tragedy struck again, this time in the form of an Easter terrorist attack at Colombo hotels and churches that left about 250 dead. Overnight, the beaches and tea estates were empty of tourists once again. While thousands of citizens were impacted by the slowdown, resilience is part of Sri Lanka’s ethos. Despite a decline of more than 20 percent in tourist numbers since 2018, a clutch of new hotels along the country’s southern coast have been readying themselves for guests, and travellers are trickling back.

Slovenia

The fact that Slovenia, a postcard-perfect Eden of Alpine meadows, red-roofed villages, and shimmering Adriatic coastline, remains a low-key hideaway might be one of the great miracles of modern European travel. Let’s face it: If the country didn’t have such show-offs for neighbours — Croatia with its Game of Thrones filming locations; northeastern Italy with, well, Venice — it would have been overrun eons ago.

Southeastern Australia

The southeastern Australia coast is ideal for a road trip — unless you’re short on time. Now there is a faster, more luxurious, and infinitely more relaxing way to explore it. Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions, the company behind the premium Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin) and Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) train routes, is adding a new adventure: Great Southern. Launching in December 2019, the 28-carriage twin-locomotive train will carry up to 214 guests between Adelaide, South Australia, and Brisbane, Queensland, traversing Victoria and New South Wales en route.

Use KAU on XcelTrip to travel to these 20 amazing places to visit in 2020 and memories that last a lifetime.

Cities To Visit In Greenland

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Greenland is a Danish territory, with Denmark having granted its home rule in 1979. Since a majority of the population is Inuit, the culture of Greenland is mainly dominated by Inuit beliefs and practices. However, the rest of the populace includes the descendants of Norse colonists and is associated with the Lutheran Church. Therefore, it is a mix of traditional Inuit and Scandinavian cultures.

17,000 people are settled in the capital city of Nuuk. Subsequently, icebergs and glaciers make for the highlight of this country and contribute to its ethereal beauty. The inhabitants of Greenland are the various immigrated people who possess unparalleled abilities that help them survive unusual temperatures. There are quite a number of cities to visit in Greenland that will make your vacation in this country worthwhile.

Ilulissat (meaning Icebergs)

A magical town located approximately 200 km (120 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. The most visited place in Greenland is home to Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour by air, sailboat and on foot — all three if you can afford to. Stay in an igloo at Hotel Arctic overlooking the Icefijord and Disko Bay.

Kangerlussuaq

Site of Greenland’s largest commercial airport, the entire city is built around the runway. The only reason to visit is to see Ice Cap Point 660 along the Arctic Circle. Drive through the moraine landscape and walk directly on the vast ice sheets that make up the Greenland Ice Cap.

Nuuk

Nuuk is the capital and largest city in Greenland. Admire traditional Danish homes as well as modern housing projects. The city offers museums, malls, restaurants and cultural centers where visitors can learn about Greenland’s ancient civilizations dating as far as 2200 BC.

Narsarsuaq

This is the place to see blue ice glaciers; a phenomenon caused by compressed snow and increased the size of air crystals. The best way to soak in the Narsarsuaq Glacier, or the Dead Glacier, because it doesn’t produce any icebergs is by hike.

Ipiutaq

The area around the settlement is home to many sheep farms that were inhabited by Norsemen. The only reason to come here is to relax at the Ipiutaq Guest Farm, a working farm with a two-bedroom guesthouse and French-Greenlandic cuisine. Picturesque valleys, vast pastures, and glaciers surround it, and there is nearby fishing and hiking.

Narsaq

Another sleepy little town in south Greenland where photographers can have a field trip. With a backdrop of mountains, colorful homes and beautiful shore of Tunulliarfik Fjord, there is no reason to stay indoors.

Qaqortoq

The capital of South Greenland can be identified as the Portofino of the Arctic. A dramatic approach from water captures the bay lined with shrimp boats and homes spread across the hilly slopes. The destination is known for kayaking, guided hiking, whale watching, cross-country skiing, and boating.

Use XcelTrip to plan your vacation and follow the list of cities to visit in Greenland to make memories to last a lifetime.

A Weekend Getaway To Budapest

The city successfully mixes its fascinating history with a brilliant, laid-back contemporary artistic style. There are a wide range of different things for visitors to see and do, from museums to thermal spas, so everyone should be able to find something that tickles their fancy. Let’s explore what the city has to offer for a weekend getaway (Friday- Sunday):

House of Terror

The House of Terror holds exhibitions about the successive Fascist and Communist regimes which ruled Hungary during the 20th Century. The building itself was the former headquarters of the Fascist Arrow Cross party, and the building was subsequently used as a prison and torture venue by the State Security services of Hungary.

There is the opportunity to tour some of the prison areas in the basement. The exhibition includes information about both regimes, as well as testimonials from some of the victims. As well as exhibitions about the fascist and communist “security services”, the building often houses other temporary exhibitions.

Hungarian State Opera House

This Neo-Renaissance building was first opened in 1884, following a commission from Emperor Franz Joseph. Outside of the building, you can see statues to Ferenc Erkel (composer of the Hungarian National Anthem) and Ferenc Liszt (Hungarian composer).

The 1200 seat auditorium is considered to be one of the best in the world for operatic performances, and it is well worth it to buy a ticket to a show.

Ticket prices start from as low as 500ft. If you cannot find time to see a show, guided tours of the Opera House are available during the day, although these usually need to be booked in advance.

Invisible Exhibition

The Invisible Exhibition aims to give visitors the chance to experience what life is like for people who are completely blind. A registered blind guide will take you on a tour through various different artificially created environments (garden, supermarket, bar etc) which are in completely dark rooms.

On arrival, you will be asked to turn off any potential light sources, such as mobile phones or digital watches, so that there will be no light at all in the rooms. After the exhibition, you can enjoy dinner in the dark, served by blind waiters, who will help you to find your way around your dinner plate.

Danube Promenade

This stretch of the Danube walkway goes from the Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge, and is perfect for those who want a short, but interesting walk. Promenading along the Danube is a great way to see many of the most famous sights in the capital.

Looking over towards the Buda side of the river, you will see the Buda Castle, the Liberty Statue on Gellert Hill and the Fisherman’s Bastion. On the Promenade side of the river you can enjoy restaurants, cafes, Szechenyi Istvan Square and a range of different sculptures, including the Little Princess.

Gellért Baths

One of the grandest spas in the city is the Gellert Bath and Spa centre, which includes an open-air pool (which turns into a wave pool), an effervescent swimming pool, a Finnish sauna, and a range of other saunas and plunge pools.

Massages and other spa treatments are also available at an extra fee. The complex was originally built between 1912 and 1918 in an Art Nouveau style, but it sustained serious damage during World War II. The whole spa was extensively renovated in 2008 to bring the baths back to their former glory. The baths are open all week for mixed bathing.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

This basilica is one of the most important religious buildings in Hungary, and visitors to the reliquary can see the (reported) right hand of Stephen, first King of Hungary. As this is a holy site, visitors who plan on entering the church are asked to keep their knees and shoulders covered.

Those with a head for heights can travel up to the base of the dome and look out over the city. On a clear day, this is a great vantage point from which to survey Budapest from the air. Classical music concerts and organ concerts regularly take place inside the Basilica, and sometimes spill out into the square outside.

Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building, which was designed and built in the Gothic Revival style, is one of the largest buildings in Hungary, and is home to hundreds of parliamentary offices. Although the impressive building looks fantastic from every angle, to see the whole building in its full glory, it is worth viewing it from the other side of the Danube.

Tours of certain areas of the building are available daily, and run in different languages. You will need identification to get in, and your bag may be searched on entry.

Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square (Hosök tere), which marks the end of Andrássy Avenue is home to an iconic monument which features depictions of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who are believed to have led the Hungarian people from central Asia to the Carpathian basin.

Atop the central pillar is the Archangel Gabriel, who is holding the Hungarian crown. On either side of the central column are two matching colonnades, which depict a variety of other historical Hungarian figures. The impressive buildings on either side of the square are art galleries. Take care when crossing to the statue, because traffic around the monument can be erratic.

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